Death Toll Rises to 22 in Kinshasa Following Catastrophic Flooding

Severe flooding in Kinshasa, Congo has resulted in at least 22 deaths, disrupted access to key locations, including the main airport, and raised concerns for trade. The provincial health minister reported that most fatalities were due to collapsing walls. The main road to the airport has been reopened for light traffic, with plans for full restoration within 72 hours.

Heavy rainfall in Kinshasa, the capital of Congo, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 22 lives and significant disruption across the city, including access to the main airport. Provincial health minister Patricien Ngongo reported that collapsing walls were primarily responsible for the fatalities during the deluge that occurred on Friday.

The flooding impeded access to the main road leading to the airport, although authorities have since managed to reopen it for light traffic. Governor Daniel Bumba indicated that, within 72 hours, the road would be fully operational again, allowing for the restoration of vital connections to the rest of the Congo, thereby impacting trade.

Truck drivers face significant challenges due to the condition of the roads, with Blaise Ndendo expressing frustrations over the inability to proceed with deliveries. In a similar incident in 2022, Kinshasa experienced severe flooding that resulted in over 100 fatalities, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in the city’s infrastructure during heavy rains.

In summary, the recent flooding in Kinshasa has caused at least 22 deaths and significantly hampered access to essential transport links, including the main airport. Authorities are making efforts to reopen affected roads, which are crucial for trade and logistics. The history of similar incidents underscores the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the Congolese capital.

Original Source: www.butlereagle.com