The results of the floods that struck Kinshasa last weekend went from 33 to 43 dead, according to a statement published Tuesday April 8 by the Minister of the Interior, Jacquemain Shabani Lukoo.
“The situation is present as follows: the number of victims hosted in the various official reception sites amounts to 2,956 people, while the number of deaths is 43. In addition, 46 people are hospitalized”, said the press release.
These bad weather has severely damaged key infrastructure, in particular those of the National Electricity Company (SNEL) and the Water Distribution Régie (Regideso), resulting in electricity cuts and disruptions in the supply of drinking water.
The Ministry of the Interior has announced that repair work to restore the supply of water and electricity rapidly.
“All high -voltage and medium voltage stations are in service, and all the factories of Regideso are powered”reassured Jacquemain Shabani.
Safety instructions
The Minister recommends that the population avoid no essential displacement towards affected or identified areas as at high risks. He also insisted on the observation of the following instructions:
- Do not cross stagnant or flood waters to prevent the risks of drowning, electrocution and contamination (cholera, infections, etc.).
- Evacuate unstable slopes and cracked houses to prevent collapses and landslides.
- Get away from the cut electric lines to avoid any danger of electrocution.
The Ministry of the Interior urged the population to show discipline, solidarity and carefully monitor the instructions of local authorities in the municipalities concerned.
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