The Ethiopian government is moving to implement a series of flood mitigation strategies in the Awash Basin, a key economic region that is particularly susceptible to flooding. The effort is part of a broader plan to build resilience and protect communities and agricultural lands.
Ministry of Water and Energy, Awash Basin Administration Office Head Engineer Aden Abdo Melo announced that crucial prevention work is actively underway in the Upper, Middle, and Lower Awash regions, following the issuance of tenders in May.
The announcement comes as continuous rainfall threatens to overwhelm the Upper Awash area, specifically impacting two "Kebeles," or local districts. The filling of water tanks and the Awash River itself have heightened the risk of inundation, forcing authorities to initiate evacuation procedures in certain areas.
"We have observed a potential flood risk in the Upper Awash due to sustained heavy rainfall. This necessitates proactive measures to safeguard communities and minimise potential damage,” Engineer Aden Abdo Melo said in an interview with EBC Dot Stream.
While the Middle and Lower Awash regions currently exhibit no signs of flooding, preparedness efforts are in full swing. Evacuation protocols have been activated in susceptible areas, demonstrating a commitment to proactive safety measures.
The Office Head lauded the close collaboration between the district administration and relevant stakeholders, emphasising that this unity has been instrumental in averting severe repercussions.
The coordinated response highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation when addressing natural disasters.
"The prompt and coordinated actions taken by local authorities and community members have been vital in preventing significant losses," Aden explained. Efforts extend beyond immediate response.
Heavy machinery is being deployed to flood-prone locations to address theimmediate crisis and reinforce defences. Simultaneously, comprehensive studies are being conducted throughout the Awash Basin to pinpoint areas most susceptible to damage and implement long-term solutions.
This proactive approach ensures that prevention strategies are tailored to the specific needs of each region.
The Office Head also emphasised the pivotal role of community involvement in mitigating the impacts of flooding. He urged residents living within the Awash Basin to remain informed, diligently follow official instructions, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
This public appeal underscores the shared responsibility in building resilience against future disasters.
The Awash River, a crucial lifeline for Ethiopia's arid regions, is vital for agriculture, industry, and human consumption. Its vulnerability to flooding poses a significant threat to livelihoods and economic stability. These ongoing flood prevention efforts are crucial to preserving the river’s benefits while safeguarding communities downstream, according to him.
