Jonglei state faces heavy flooding
November 9, 2013 (BOR) – The state capital of South Sudan’s Jonglei state is facing floods of the same magnitude as floods in September which displaced hundreds of people.
Ayen Akoi, one of those forced to evacuate their home, told Sudan Tribune that the flood water has “come again with the same speed and volume [as September]. I am now packing to move out of this place, Malual-chat is the best option”.
The South Sudan Red Cross in Bor was reported to have been involved in the evacuation process.
Local reports indicate the White Nile River burst its bank near Bor, resulting in water pouring into residential areas through canals dug in 1970s for a rice irrigation scheme.
Government institutions including the ministry of physical infrastructure, gender, child and social welfare and the office of the census have been flooded as well as, Hai-machuar market, where water is above the knees of those trying to walk throught the area.
Local people were actively involved in blocking and diverting the flow of water but their attempts proved largely futile. Since the flooding began the government has not been seen attempting to address the issue.
Jonglei and Western Bahr el Ghazal were among the states seriously affected by flooding this year.
Out of the 200,000 flood affected in South Sudan, about 117,000 people managed to receive assistance from humanitarian agencies according to a recent United Nations report.
(ST)