In the wake of a catastrophic flood that claimed more than 11,000 lives and caused widespread destruction in the coastal city of Derna, Libyan authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the collapse of the two dams responsible for the disaster. The flood, triggered by torrential rains brought on by Mediterranean storm Daniel, overwhelmed the dams, resulting in a wall of water that tore through the heart of Derna, obliterating entire neighborhoods and claiming numerous lives. As rescue efforts continue and the death toll rises, authorities are grappling with the daunting task of finding missing persons and analyzing the causes behind this devastating calamity.
Flood aftermath and ongoing search efforts:
Rescue teams, consisting of both local and international groups, have been tirelessly combing through mud and ravaged structures in search of bodies and potential survivors. As reported by the Libyan Red Crescent, over 10,000 people are still missing, and the search for them continues. Claire Nicolet, who leads the emergencies department of Doctors Without Borders aid group, revealed that on Friday alone, a significant number of bodies were discovered, with more being washed ashore by the sea. The scale of this tragedy necessitates extensive aid efforts, including urgent psychological support for those who have lost their families. Despite some progress in coordinating rescue operations and providing assistance, challenges remain in terms of burial procedures and preventing the spread of waterborne diseases.
Concerns over water contamination and explosive ordnance:
As recovery efforts unfold, authorities and aid organizations are expressing deep concern over the risk of waterborne diseases spreading as well as the potential for displaced explosive remnants from past conflicts to resurface. Haider al-Saeih, the head of Libya’s center for combating diseases, revealed that over 150 people have already suffered from diarrhea after consuming contaminated water in Derna. To address this issue, residents are being urged to consume only bottled water, which is being delivered as part of the relief efforts. Simultaneously, authorities are taking measures to prevent any further diseases from surfacing and ensuring the safety of the affected population.
Investigating the dams and allocation of maintenance funds:
Libya’s General Prosecutor, al-Sediq al-Sour, has underscored the importance of a thorough investigation into the collapse of the two dams that were constructed in the 1970s and the subsequent allocation of maintenance funds. This includes scrutinizing local authorities in Derna, as well as previous governments. Al-Sour has assured citizens that those found responsible for any negligence or mistakes will face legal consequences. However, the task of conducting such an investigation is complex, given the country’s fragmented state since the overthrow of Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. Libya’s political division has resulted in the neglect of vital infrastructure, even as climate change exacerbates the occurrence of severe weather events.
Challenges in conducting the investigation and seeking accountability:
Jalel Harchaoui, an expert on Libya at the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies, has highlighted the unique challenges that an investigation of this magnitude presents to judicial authorities. Potential implications that could reach high-ranking officials in eastern and western Libya underscore the delicate nature of such an undertaking. Since 2014, eastern Libya has been under the control of Gen. Khalifa Hifter and his Libyan National Army, while Tripoli hosts a rival government that controls national funds and infrastructure projects. Accountability and cooperation will be key to unearthing the truth behind this tragedy.
The devastating flood in Derna, Libya, caused by the collapse of two dams, has left immeasurable loss and destruction in its wake. As the search for missing persons continues, authorities are conducting a meticulous investigation to determine the causes of the dam failure and address potential negligence. The ongoing challenge of repairing infrastructure, preventing further loss of life, and supporting affected individuals and communities necessitates swift action and international assistance.
Market Capital Research 