In October 2024, N’Djamena faced significant flood risks due to heavy rains and rising river levels. However, thanks to the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER) and its effective drainage management strategies, the capital demonstrated remarkable resilience, with far fewer households affected compared to 2022. The project also provided vital emergency response resources to aid affected residents.
The capital of Chad, N’Djamena, situated at the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers, has faced significant challenges due to flooding exacerbated by climate change. In early October 2024, the Chari River reached 8.18 meters, surpassing its height from the previous catastrophic flood in 2022. Since July 2024, the nation has experienced extensive flooding, resulting in 576 fatalities and 1.9 million individuals rendered homeless, marking the most severe disaster since the 1960s.
N’Djamena suffered immensely in 2022, with entire neighborhoods inundated, leading many residents to flee, while infrastructure notably failed to prevent flooding. In contrast, the recent floods saw a more resilient response, aided by the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER), supported by the International Development Association (IDA), which initiated an emergency plan in October 2023 with a budget of approximately $13 million.
Between April and September 2024, the PILIER project effectively cleaned and maintained the city’s drainage systems and outfalls along the Chari River, thereby enhancing water runoff management. This proactive approach included repairs to damaged roads, ensuring improved drainage capabilities. For many residents, this marked the first experience of comprehensive network cleaning in memory.
The implementation of large-capacity motor pumps enabled expedited drainage, significantly decreasing the water retention in various basins. According to Sarmadji Oumar, director of roads at N’Djamena’s city hall, the project’s timely interventions led to drastically fewer flood-affected households compared to prior years. This successful management prevented large-scale damage and displacement, demonstrating the effectiveness of the flood control measures.
Road crews worked diligently around the clock, utilizing mobile motorized pumps to monitor water levels closely, as highlighted by road officer Abakar Moustapha’s proactive approach. Furthermore, the municipal government bolstered these efforts by raising emergency dikes and reinforcing vulnerable areas along the Chari River.
The Imam of Idara Mosque, Sheikh Adam Ismail, expressed gratitude for the enhanced municipal efforts, noting unprecedented accessibility following cleanliness initiatives. Similarly, market vendor Rémadji Aline appreciated improved customer turnout this season, attributing it to the effective drainage improvements.
The PILIER project encompasses more than just flood risk mitigation; it also provides logistical support for emergency responses. This includes equipping local authorities with essential rescue materials, establishing accessible drinking water, and preparing emergency kits for potential disaster victims. Additionally, the project fosters community engagement through partnerships with local NGOs for raising awareness and rehabilitating essential facilities affected by flooding.
N’Djamena’s enhanced resilience to flooding in 2024, attributed to preventative measures under the PILIER project, starkly contrasts the devastation experienced during the 2022 floods. By implementing comprehensive drainage improvements and mobilizing emergency resources, the city successfully mitigated disaster impacts this year. Continued investment in infrastructure and community preparedness will be crucial as climate-related challenges persist.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
