Title: The floods in Coyah: an alert on the consequences of anarchic constructions in Guinea
Introduction :
On the weekend of August 5-6, the prefecture of Coyah, located about fifty kilometers from Conakry, was the victim of heavy rains which caused dramatic flooding. These exceptional bad weather caused the death of one person, many injuries and significant material damage. Beyond this tragic event, these floods underline in an alarming way the consequences of the anarchic constructions which have become commonplace in Guinea. In this article, we will analyze the factors that have contributed to this situation and raise the importance of proper urban planning to avoid such tragedies in the future.
Anarchic construction and vulnerability to flooding:
The city of Coyah is known to be one of the wettest localities in maritime Guinea. However, in recent years, population growth and urbanization have led to uncontrolled urban expansion, characterized by anarchic constructions. Residents, in search of affordable housing, have built houses in flood-prone areas and along waterways, disregarding the potential risks.
These anarchic constructions have aggravated the population’s vulnerability to flooding. Dwellings that are poorly designed and often located in high-risk areas are quickly submerged during heavy rains. Moreover, the lack of adequate drainage infrastructure aggravates the situation by preventing the rapid evacuation of water.
A call for rigorous urban planning:
Faced with these tragic floods, it is imperative to underline the urgency of rigorous urban planning in Guinea. Local and national authorities must take steps to regulate construction and ensure compliance with safety standards. It is crucial to put in place strict rules to prevent construction in high-risk areas, especially those near waterways.
In addition, it is necessary to invest in efficient drainage infrastructure to allow the rapid evacuation of stormwater. The establishment of effective water management systems, such as the construction of drainage channels and retention ponds, will help reduce the risk of flooding and protect the population.
Public awareness and education:
At the same time, it is essential to carry out awareness and education campaigns to inform the populations about the risks associated with uncontrolled construction and flooding. It is essential to promote understanding of the importance of choosing safe places to build and to promote construction practices adapted to the climatic conditions of the region..
Conclusion :
The floods in Coyah have brought to light the disastrous consequences of anarchic construction in Guinea. To avoid such tragedies in the future, it is essential to implement rigorous urban planning, regulate construction and invest in efficient drainage infrastructure. By raising awareness and educating populations on the risks, we can act collectively to protect our cities and our inhabitants from catastrophic floods