Landslide Disaster in East Uganda: Government Orders Evacuation of Over 5,000 Households
A massive fissure in the mountains of east Uganda has sparked concerns of another deadly disaster, prompting the government to order the evacuation of over 5,000 households in the affected areas. The decision comes after heavy rains in late November triggered a landslide that killed at least 36 people and left scores missing in the Bulambuli district.
The Situation
Collapsed mountainsides after the heavy rains ravaged five villages, with the authorities fearing that another catastrophe could strike at any moment. A huge crack on the land, covering about 70 km, has been discovered, prompting the government to sound the alarm. According to Lillian Aber, the state minister for relief and disaster preparedness, the appearance of the crack is a "trigger" for the population to evacuate immediately.
Evacuation Plan
The government has set a two-week timeframe for residents to evacuate before authorities will step in to force them to leave. All evacuees will be given a resettlement package of cash and land. The affected areas include the mountainous districts of Bulambuli, Mbale, Sironko, Kapchorwa, Kween, Bukwo, and Bududa.
Recent Rainy Seasons
Recent rainy seasons in East Africa have been more violent than normal, with the El Nino weather phenomenon intensifying the downpours. In Uganda, at least two people died in the previous rainy season, between March and May. In neighbouring Kenya, the wet weather left at least 228 people dead, 72 missing, and more than 200,000 displaced in the same period.
History of Landslides in Uganda
Eastern Uganda suffered one of the most devastating landslides in the country’s history in February 2010, killing more than 350 people in the Bududa district at the foot of Mount Elgon. The government is keen to avoid a repeat of this tragedy and is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Conclusion
The evacuation order is a precautionary measure to prevent another disaster from occurring. The government’s swift response to the crisis demonstrates its commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens. The affected residents will be given support and assistance to ensure their relocation is smooth and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the government ordering the evacuation of over 5,000 households?
A: The government is responding to the discovery of a massive fissure in the mountains, which poses a threat to the safety of residents in the affected areas.
Q: What measures are being taken to assist the evacuees?
A: All evacuees will be given a resettlement package of cash and land to help them rebuild their lives.
Q: What is the reason for the increased frequency of landslides in East Africa?
A: The recent rainy seasons have been more violent than normal due to the El Nino weather phenomenon, which is intensifying the downpours.