N’Djamena, Chad, has shown resilience against flooding in October 2024, benefiting from preventive measures implemented through the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER). With significant funding, the city cleaned its drainage system and prepared emergency responses, resulting in fewer neighborhoods being affected compared to previous years. These efforts have markedly enhanced the city’s ability to cope with the flooding caused by torrential rains and climate change.
In early October 2024, N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, faced significant flooding challenges as the Chari River reached a height of 8.18 meters. This level surpassed the height recorded during the catastrophic floods of 2022. The city’s struggles are exacerbated by climate change, with torrential rains having caused the deaths of 576 people and left 1.9 million homeless across the country since July. This situation marks the region’s most severe disaster since the 1960s.
Unlike in previous years when floods devastated neighborhoods forcing people to flee, N’Djamena demonstrated resilience this time due to proactive measures. The Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER), backed by the International Development Association (IDA), played a crucial role. Initiated in October 2023, an emergency budget of approximately $13 million was allocated to address the imminent flooding risk in 2024.
From April to September 2024, the PILIER project undertook significant cleaning and preparation efforts. The entire 250-kilometer drainage system, including all outfalls leading to the Chari River, was cleared of accumulated sludge and debris. Additionally, damaged roads were improved to enhance drainage capacity. These measures were unprecedented in N’Djamena, significantly contributing to better runoff management this flood season.
The proactive measures enabled by the PILIER project were instrumental in managing the city’s water drainage efficiently. “We escaped disastrous floods this time, with fewer than 3,000 households impacted compared to over 70,000 in 2022,” stated Sarmadji Oumar, director of roads at the city hall. Rapid response teams were mobilized to monitor water levels continuously, ensuring that any necessary interventions could be conducted promptly.
Moreover, the Chadian government supplemented PILIER’s efforts by raising emergency dikes and fortifying vulnerable points along the river in specific districts. Imam Sheikh Adam Ismail from the Idara Mosque expressed gratitude for the municipality’s canal cleaning efforts, which improved access for worshippers, showcasing the project’s immediate positive societal impact.
Market vendors, such as Rémadji Aline, noted improved business conditions despite heavy rains, attributing it to the effective drainage management in place. The PILIER project extends beyond flood mitigation, encompassing comprehensive emergency response initiatives, including delivering essential equipment and supplies to the affected populations. This proactive planning highlights the community’s commitment to flood risk management and preparedness.
In summary, N’Djamena’s successful flood management in 2024 can be attributed to the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project, which implemented effective urban resilience strategies and emergency responses. With substantial investment and community involvement, the city has significantly reduced flooding impacts and improved the overall well-being of its residents. This case serves as a testament to the effectiveness of preventive measures in addressing climate-related challenges.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
