The North East Gonja District of the Savannah Region is grappling with a devastating flood crisis following a prolonged period of torrential rainfall, leaving countless homes submerged and communities cut off. At least 93 houses have collapsed, resulting in the displacement of over 246 residents, a stark consequence of the unprecedented rainfall that began Wednesday afternoon. The disaster has far-reaching implications, impacting food supplies, agricultural production, livestock, and access to essential healthcare services.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has confirmed the flooding is directly linked to continuous rainfall that began Wednesday. NADMO’s Savannah Regional Director, Mahama Zakaria, led an assessment of the affected areas, revealing the extent of the damage. Families are currently counting losses, with many losing their homes, food stocks, and livestock to the floodwaters. The floods have also destroyed a key feeder road, effectively isolating numerous communities including Lantung Park, Kedingi, and Kanankula.
The road’s destruction presents a significant logistical challenge, hindering the movement of people, farm produce, and goods between the affected communities and the local market. Eric, a business operator in Bimbila, described the situation as ‘catastrophic’ and urged immediate governmental and organizational assistance to support displaced families. Mr. Zakaria stated that relief items are expected to reach the victims within 48 hours, though the scale of the damage is immense.
NADMO reports that the flood has compounded the existing challenges, threatening access to healthcare services for residents. District Chief Executive for North East Gonja, Abdul Mumin Ewuntomah, confirmed that 93 structures had collapsed across the district, with several communities, notably Bimbila, where residents depended on the road for market access, being cut off. The road’s disruption has severely hampered economic activity, with traders struggling to move freely due to the damaged infrastructure. The situation extends beyond immediate shelter needs, with residents facing difficulties accessing food, clean water, and critical medical care. The Savannah Regional District has issued a warning that the situation could also impact access to healthcare services in Bunjai and Salaga.
The district assembly and community members are mobilizing resources – including stones and gravel – to create temporary crossings, acknowledging that longer-term restoration efforts are crucial. Road construction equipment is also scheduled to arrive to expedite repairs and support the recovery process. The assembly emphasizes the urgent need for temporary housing, food, water, and assistance to help families rebuild their lives and livelihoods following this devastating event.”
This situation underscores the vulnerability of communities reliant on transportation networks and highlights the critical need for robust disaster preparedness and response measures.
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Source: TV3
