Fatshimetrie, November 10, 2024 – A worrying situation recently occurred in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, where a hole formed on the national road number 1 (RN1) in Matadi-Kibala 2, following heavy rains. The consequences of this event were immediate, disrupting not only road traffic but also highlighting the lack of adequate preventive measures.
According to the testimonies collected, the hole in Matadi-Kibala 2 made it impossible for trucks to pass, thus creating a serious traffic disruption. The neighborhood chief, Jean-Paul Amboko, stressed that this inconvenience could have been avoided if preventive actions had been taken upstream, including the construction of a large gutter to contain rainwater. Unfortunately, these measures were not put in place despite past recommendations.
It should be noted that this situation is not isolated. Indeed, the lack of gutters on some sections of the RN1 has also led to traffic problems due to the presence of sand washed away by the rains. The commander of the Road Traffic Police, Thierry Bola, stressed that the absence of these essential infrastructures has contributed to the blockage of the roadway, thus hindering the flow of traffic.
For the inhabitants of the region, this situation has had a direct impact on their daily lives. Some have had to walk for more than an hour and a half to return home, testifying to the negative impact of these events on their lives.
Faced with these difficulties, it is essential that the authorities take concrete measures to prevent such situations in the future. The construction of suitable gutters, raising awareness among the population to adopt responsible practices in terms of rainwater drainage, and regular monitoring of road infrastructures are all actions that could help avoid such inconveniences and guarantee the safety of citizens.
Ultimately, the situation in Matadi-Kibala 2 highlights the need to plan and act proactively to address the challenges of extreme weather conditions. Road infrastructure must be designed and maintained to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring the continuity of essential services and the safety of road users.