Gov’t directs inspection of all dams in Kenya ahead of compulsory evacuation
The government has directed County Security and Intelligence
Committees (CSICs) across the country to inspect all public and private dams
and water reservoirs by 2 p.m. Tuesday.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki on Monday directed the committees
to thereafter recommend cases where compulsory evacuation and temporary
resettlement orders should be issued.
This is in the wake of Monday morning’s incident where a dam burst its banks in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru County, and wiped out homes and vehicles, killing over 42 people.
The interior minister directed counties to deploy
enforcement teams at road spots prone to flooding and that water has breached
the bridge to prevent motorists or pedestrians from dangerous crossing.
“… arrest and prosecute offenders for attempted suicide
and/or attempted murder as the facts of the case may be,” Kindiki said.
Further, the enforcement teams will bar transportation
of passengers across flooded rivers or storm water by canoes or boats deemed
unsafe.
“Prevent the transportation of passengers across flooded rivers or storm water by unsafe canoes or boats and arrest inexperienced and unscrupulous persons taking advantage of the prevailing situation to cash in on persons in distress,” the minister
added.
Police said over 100 people were rescued and treated at Mai Mahiu health
centre after the 4 a.m. dam burst incident while 32 others were referred to Naivasha
sub-county hospital.
The incident brought to over 100 the number of people who
have died from flooding amid heavy rains experienced in most of Kenya since
March.
Want to send us a story? SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp 0743570000 or Submit on Citizen Digital or email wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke
Comments
No comments yet.
Leave a Comment