N’Djamena, Chad, faced severe flooding risks in October 2024 due to climate change and heavy rainfall, with river levels at record highs, reminiscent of past catastrophes. However, proactive measures from the PILIER project helped prevent significant damage and loss of life, resulting in a marked reduction in flood impacts compared to previous years. Improved drainage infrastructure and emergency responses demonstrated substantial progress in urban resilience efforts.
The capital of Chad, N’Djamena, situated at the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers, faced elevated flood risks due to increased rainfall and rising river levels. By early October 2024, the Chari River measured at 8.18 meters—considerably higher than the levels observed during the catastrophic floods in 2022, highlighting the city’s vulnerability to climate change-induced extremes. Since July 2024, torrential rains led to 576 fatalities and left approximately 1.9 million individuals homeless across the country, marking a significant disaster not witnessed since the 1960s.
In contrast to the devastation experienced in 2022, N’Djamena benefitted from essential preventative measures this time. The Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER), supported by the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank, implemented a comprehensive emergency plan amounting to approximately $13 million to mitigate flood risks. The initiative commenced in October 2023, leading to various infrastructure improvements in anticipation of potential flooding.
Between April and September 2024, the PILIER project facilitated the cleaning and maintenance of the city’s 250 km water drainage network and the outfalls along the Chari River, ensuring proper runoff management. This marked the first time in many years that such comprehensive cleaning operations had been conducted, allowing better preparation and response to rising water levels. “Today we escaped disastrous floods,” stated Sarmadji Oumar, Director of Roads at the city hall, referring to the project’s impact on the infrastructure operations.
Emergency measures involved deploying large-capacity motor pumps to expedite pumping water from the city to the river and implementing improved drainage systems. N’Djamena’s road crews vigilantly monitored water levels, as described by road officer Abakar Moustapha, who emphasized the proactive response mechanisms in place to combat flooding. “We took turns day and night,” he added, highlighting the city’s commitment to maintaining safety amid climate risks.
Additionally, local government actions included bolstering emergency dikes and reinforcing vulnerable sites along the Chari River to prevent historic flood levels. Community members, such as Sheikh Adam Ismail, expressed gratitude for the improvements, noting the ease of access to places of worship due to the maintenance work. Vendors like Rémadji Aline acknowledged increased customer traffic at markets, attributing this surge to better drainage systems despite the heavy rains.
PILIER’s contingency plan extends beyond immediate flood response by equipping local authorities with necessary emergency supplies and facilitating effective communication. The initiative includes the distribution of canoes, life jackets, drinking water, and other essential materials to aid potential flood victims. Furthermore, agreements with neighborhood associations enhance community preparedness for flood risks and contributions to the rehabilitation of affected schools and health centers.
In summary, N’Djamena has demonstrated significant resilience against floods in 2024 due to proactive measures implemented through the PILIER project. Amidst the backdrop of climate change challenges and previous devastating floods, the city’s comprehensive infrastructure improvements, swift emergency responses, and community cooperation have resulted in fewer casualties and reduced property damage this year. These efforts highlight the importance of ongoing investment in urban resilience strategies to safeguard vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
