N’Djamena has improved flood resilience through the PILIER project, which implemented preventive measures following devastating floods in 2022. A $13 million emergency plan resulted in a significant cleanup of drainage systems and infrastructure enhancements that minimized flooding in 2024 compared to over 70,000 people affected in 2022. This proactive response has saved thousands of households from disaster.
N’Djamena, Chad’s capital situated at the junction of the Chari and Logone rivers, faces severe flooding due to climate change. In early October 2024, the Chari River rose to 8.18 meters, surpassing previous levels since the catastrophic 2022 flood that displaced many. Since July 2024, flooding has led to 576 deaths and 1.9 million people left homeless in Chad, marking the worst disaster since the 1960s.
After the 2022 floods where neighborhoods were heavily impacted, urgent improvements were necessary. N’Djamena’s infrastructure, particularly its water piping and dike systems, had deteriorated, proving inadequate to manage the accumulated rain and river overflow. To address this, the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER) was initiated, supported by the International Development Association (IDA) and established in response to governmental requests.
Launched in October 2023, the PILIER project included a $13 million emergency plan to bolster N’Djamena’s flood resilience. Between April and September 2024, a comprehensive cleanup of the 250 km drainage network commenced, clearing years of sludge. This action significantly improved runoff drainage and allowed more effective management of stormwater, with large-capacity pumps facilitating water flow from the city to the river.
“With the cleaning work conducted by the project since June, we have successfully managed to drain rainwater retention basins and mitigate flooding impacts,” expressed Sarmadji Oumar, director of roads at N’Djamena’s city hall. Compared to 2022, only 3,000 households faced flooding issues this year, showcasing the project’s success in protecting residents.
Road crews, employing mobile motorized pumps, actively monitored water levels, ready to respond promptly to rising waters. Officer Abakar Moustapha noted their vigilance: “We were on the lookout. At the first alarm, we had to jump in the vehicle to intervene.” Their continuous monitoring highlighted the proactive measures taken to prevent disaster.
Supplementing the PILIER project, the government allocated funds to raise emergency dikes and strengthen vulnerable areas along the Chari River. These preventive actions effectively restrained a historic flood, thereby protecting the community. Imam Sheikh Adam Ismail of the Idara Mosque expressed gratitude for improved access due to the canal cleanups performed this year.
Market vendors like Rémadji Aline have also noticed positive changes, stating that customer attendance remained steady despite the heavy rains, reflecting improved drainage systems. The PILIER project’s contingency plans extend beyond flood risk reduction; they encompass emergency response measures such as providing essential resources to disaster victims and enhancing community preparedness.
The proactive measures implemented by the PILIER project significantly improved N’Djamena’s resilience against flooding compared to previous years. By cleaning drainage networks, enhancing infrastructure, and coordinating emergency responses, the city successfully mitigated the impacts of severe weather events. This comprehensive strategy not only reduced displacement and property damage but also fostered community engagement and preparedness for future challenges.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
