Flash floods triggered by heavy overnight rains have disrupted movement between Kapuri and Juba, leaving travellers stranded. The rising water submerged the bridge linking the area to the capital, making it unsafe for crossing. Residents reported that schoolchildren, workers, motorists, and other travellers were stranded on both sides of the Kapuri Bridge. The flooding occurred after a period of heavy rainfall in the region.
According to Oketayot Santo, a resident of Kapuri, the flooding has severely impacted daily life. He stated that an old bridge linking Kapuri to town had previously been damaged and later dismantled after the Ministry of Roads constructed a temporary bridge. However, this temporary solution has proven inadequate in the face of the current flooding. Santo expressed frustration, saying he was unable to travel to work due to the flooding.
The flooding has affected not only individuals but also the transportation of goods. Santo reported that even heavy trucks were unable to cross the Kapuri Bridge, warning that attempting to pass through the fast-flowing water could put lives and property at risk. The disruption to movement between Kapuri and Juba is expected to have significant economic and social implications for the region.
Residents are calling on authorities to prioritize the construction of a permanent bridge at Kapuri. Santo emphasized that work on a permanent structure has stalled for several years, and the current situation highlights the need for a more durable solution. He urged authorities to take action, saying, "For the authorities, they really need to work on a permanent bridge that can be a permanent solution for this."
The impact of the flooding is being felt by the local community, with schoolchildren and workers stranded on both sides of the road. The situation is expected to continue until the water recedes, allowing for safe passage. In the meantime, residents are forced to wait, hoping for a swift resolution to the situation. The flooding has also raised concerns about the preparedness of local authorities to respond to such disasters.
The Ministry of Roads had previously constructed a temporary bridge, but it has proven inadequate in the face of the current flooding. The construction of a permanent bridge has stalled, and residents are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress. The situation in Kapuri highlights the need for investment in infrastructure to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
The flooding in Kapuri is a reminder of the challenges faced by communities in South Sudan, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. The disruption to movement and daily life is expected to continue until a more permanent solution is implemented. Authorities have yet to comment on the situation, but residents are hopeful that action will be taken to address the issue.
Key points
- Authorities are urged to prioritize the construction of a permanent bridge at Kapuri to mitigate the impact of flooding.
- The flooding has disrupted movement between Kapuri and Juba, leaving travellers stranded.
- Residents are calling for a more durable solution to the flooding, which has affected daily life and the transportation of goods.
