NIAMEY, Niger: Niamey, the capital of Niger, has been nearly isolated from the rest of the country due to severe flooding caused by heavy rains since June.
The rising floodwaters have submerged main roads out of the city, which has a population of about 1.5 million, leaving residents reliant on canoes for transportation. Over 11,500 people in Niamey have been directly affected, and the floods have caused 217 deaths across the country, impacting more than 350,000 people.
The flooding has disrupted transportation, with most companies suspending their routes. Drivers like Ali Adamou have faced life-threatening situations, with vehicles being engulfed by the rising waters. To assist stranded residents, gendarme and military motorboats have been deployed.
Efforts to reopen National Route 1, a crucial highway, are underway by the French construction group Sogea-Satom. Authorities are also reinforcing dykes along the Niger River to prevent further damage. The government is working urgently to restore transport links to avoid shortages, particularly of fuel, as the situation remains critical.
