In a significant move towards urban resilience, the capital city of Chad, N’Djamena, has launched the second phase of its ambitious Integrated Management Project for Flood Control and Urban Resilience, known as “Pilier.”
The project, which has recently received a substantial $20 million funding boost from the World Bank, aims to tackle the persistent flooding challenges that have beset the central African nation, particularly following the devastating floods of 2022.
At the heart of Pilier’s second phase is a strong emphasis on community-led interventions. Local residents are not merely bystanders but active participants in the planning and execution of strategies designed to bolster their city’s defenses against the ravages of climate change.
This collaborative approach is expected to foster a sense of ownership and ensure the sustainability of the resilience measures.
The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is at the helm of managing the project’s funds, serving as a testament to the global commitment to support Chad in its fight against climate-induced disasters. The UNDP’s stewardship will ensure that the allocated resources are directed towards impactful and efficient use.
A cornerstone of the project is the establishment of an advanced early warning system. This proactive measure is set to provide timely notifications to the populace about imminent flood threats, enabling them to take necessary precautions to protect their livelihoods.
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Pilier’s scope extends beyond community engagement, encompassing a comprehensive suite of initiatives aimed at fortifying N’Djamena’s infrastructure and enhancing its capacity to withstand environmental shocks.
These initiatives include the rehabilitation and construction of new infrastructures, such as improved drainage systems, technical assistance, and investments in solid waste management, as well as educational campaigns to raise household awareness about flood risks.
In addition, the project will introduce a Contingent Emergency Response (CERC) mechanism to sharpen Chad’s ability to respond to crises swiftly and effectively.
This mechanism will play a crucial role in emergency response, early recovery, and urgent reconstruction efforts, thereby improving the nation’s overall disaster preparedness.
The impact of Pilier is far-reaching, with over 340,000 individuals from more than 55,000 families already affected by the unprecedented flooding caused by torrential rains across Chad.
The project’s ultimate goal is to transform N’Djamena into a greener, more sustainable, and resilient city, capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change.
The Integrated Management Project for Flood Control and Urban Resilience in N’Djamena is not just an infrastructure development initiative; it is a movement towards creating a city that is prepared for the future, with its people at the forefront of the resilience-building process.
