Senegal is enhancing flood prevention measures ahead of the rainy season by coordinating efforts with government agencies, local authorities, and community residents. The National Office of Sanitation (ONAS) has initiated a campaign to dredge and drain water channels in Dakar and other regions. The campaign highlights the importance of public participation in preventing urban flooding as severe risks loom during the rainy months.
As the rainy season draws closer in West Africa, Senegal is stepping up its efforts to combat urban flooding. The government is executing a coordinated response with local authorities and community members to address potential flooding problems. The National Office of Sanitation (ONAS) has launched a significant campaign focused on dredging and draining water channels across Dakar and other parts of the country to mitigate flooding risks.
Dakar, being the most populated area in Senegal, remains particularly susceptible to flooding during the rainy months. The rainy season, which commonly begins in late June and extends through October, poses significant challenges, particularly between early July and mid-October when the flooding threat peaks.
Within the suburban district of Guediawaye, ongoing operations are in full swing. Workers there are using a mix of shovels, suction trucks, and excavators to clear out areas prone to flooding. They are diligently removing debris from drainage ditches to ensure water can flow freely, ultimately aiming to lessen flooding impact.
In remarks regarding the campaign, Djibril Samb, an ONAS staff member overseeing the activities, stated, “We have deployed technical personnel and heavy machinery, including water pumping vehicles, to fully clean blocked drainage pipes, reservoirs, and culverts.” This proactive approach underscores the commitment of local authorities to prevent excessive flooding.
During the campaign’s launch, Minister of Water and Sanitation Cheikh Tidiane Dieye highlighted the government’s financial investments in flood prevention measures. However, he also stressed the importance of public collaboration, urging individuals to refrain from littering and obstructing waterways. His appeal to the community was aimed at encouraging participation in cleaning and maintaining the environment.
Since 2012, Senegal has been actively implementing the National Flood Management Plan, designed to enhance the country’s disaster response capabilities. This plan includes significant infrastructure developments aimed at managing stormwater drainage, which have effectively reduced flooding across numerous districts.
Astou Mbengue, who heads data collection at the Senegalese Federation of Residents’ Associations, emphasized the need for ongoing focus on urban drainage systems. She urged the government to accelerate improvements in both sewage and stormwater networks. Furthermore, Ms. Mbengue advocated for community involvement in all project phases to foster sustainable practices long-term.
In summary, as Senegal prepares for the upcoming rainy season, the combined efforts of governmental entities with local communities aim to significantly improve the response to potential flooding. This proactive stance indicates a collective commitment toward ensuring better urban management and disaster preparedness as rain falls in the capital and beyond.
Senegal is gearing up for the rainy season with substantial flood prevention initiatives involving various stakeholders. The National Office of Sanitation has mobilized considerable resources, emphasizing community cooperation and engagement. As historical investments in infrastructure begin to yield results, ongoing improvements and community involvement may further enhance resilience against flooding in urban areas, particularly in densely populated Dakar. With a coordinated approach focused on both immediate action and long-term sustainability, Senegal hopes to tackle the ongoing challenges posed by flooding during the rainy months.
Original Source: english.news.cn
