The sudden collapse of Arbaat Dam in eastern Sudan on Sunday has triggered severe flooding, leading to the tragic loss of at least 60 lives and leaving hundreds more missing, according to Sudanese officials.
Omer Issa Tahir, head of the Red Sea State's Water Corporation, reported that the dam burst has wreaked havoc on villages situated near Port Sudan, the state's capital. The catastrophic failure has submerged entire communities, disrupting lives and infrastructure.
\"The priority is to evacuate those trapped by the flooding,\" Tahir emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for swift interventions in the affected areas. Rescue teams are currently mobilized, striving to reach those stranded amidst the rising waters.
The collapse, triggered by heavy rains, has resulted in intense flooding laden with silt, which has not only devastated nearby villages but also complicated rescue operations. The swiftly moving water has made it challenging for rescue teams to navigate and reach the hardest-hit areas.
Arbaat Dam, located approximately 20 kilometers north of Port Sudan, held a reservoir with a capacity of 25 million cubic meters. It served as a crucial water source for the city, underscoring the significant impact of its sudden failure on the region's water supply and infrastructure.
In addition to the immediate dangers posed by the floodwaters, Tahir warned of secondary risks such as scorpion and snake bites, particularly among those who had to climb mountains in a desperate attempt to escape the rising water levels.
Local media have highlighted the extensive damage caused by the dam's collapse, noting that the combination of heavy rainfall and structural failure has plunged the area into a humanitarian crisis. Efforts to provide aid and support to the displaced residents continue as authorities work to manage the unfolding disaster.
Reference(s):
Sudan dam collapse leaves at least 60 dead, hundreds missing
cgtn.com
