Uganda’s Landslide Tragedy Claims 17 Lives Amidst Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The death toll from a landslide in Bulambuli district, Uganda, has risen to 17 with over 100 missing. The landslide, caused by heavy rain, buried numerous homes, prompting urgent rescue operations. Government officials highlighted the need for better compliance with warnings about living in risk-prone areas. As Uganda faces ongoing extreme weather, the safety and preparedness of communities remain a pressing concern.

The recent landslide in Bulambuli district, eastern Uganda, has resulted in a tragic death toll, now at 17, with over 100 individuals currently missing. This disaster, triggered by torrential rains, occurred on Wednesday, submerging numerous homes across various villages. Local media captured distressing scenes of deep mud where lives and properties once thrived, as families mourned and rescuers searched for survivors amidst the devastation.

Charles Odongtho, a representative of the Office of the Prime Minister, expressed his disbelief at the high casualty figures in light of prior warnings issued to residents in vulnerable regions regarding potential landslides. According to the Uganda Red Cross Society, at least 45 homes have been entirely buried, with additional properties suffering partial damage. One particularly heart-wrenching account came from Ignatius Wamakuyu Mudimi, a local politician, who revealed that his niece and her newborn were among those lost to the landslide.

In response to this calamity, the Ugandan government has urged those in landslide-susceptible areas to relocate to safer sites. The Uganda Red Cross and law enforcement are actively conducting search-and-rescue operations. The current extreme weather conditions since October have resulted in significant flooding and an increased frequency of landslides across the nation. Deforestation and land use practices in the mountainous regions have exacerbated the risk posed by such natural disasters. The region is historically prone to landslides, with a notable avalanche in 2010 claiming over 80 lives.

Landslides in Uganda pose a significant threat, particularly during the rainy seasons. The nation has recently faced unusual weather patterns, leading to substantial rainfall and consequent flooding. Areas like Bulambuli district are particularly prone to these disasters, largely due to both geographical factors and human activities, such as deforestation for agriculture, which destabilizes the land. The Ugandan government implements an early warning system for natural disasters; however, the effectiveness of these measures is often challenged by extreme weather conditions and local compliance. Public safety measures include relocation warnings for residents in high-risk areas, aimed at reducing casualties.

The tragic events in Bulambuli district underscore the ongoing risks associated with severe weather patterns and geographical vulnerabilities in Uganda. With 17 confirmed fatalities and significant missing persons, the need for effective disaster response measures is crucial. Furthermore, addressing underlying issues such as deforestation and improving community education on safety protocols are important steps toward mitigating future disasters. The government and humanitarian organizations continue to work tirelessly to support affected families and regain safety in the region.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv