Tripoli, Libya – (African Boulevard News) – Libyans in the flood-hit city of Derna took to the streets on Thursday, protesting against the local authorities’ inadequate response to the devastating floods that have affected the region. The angry protesters voiced their frustrations with the lack of assistance and demanded urgent action to address the ongoing crisis.
The coastal city of Derna, located in eastern Libya, has been grappling with torrential rains and severe floods for the past week. The situation has worsened due to the city’s dilapidated infrastructure, which has been poorly maintained in the years of conflict and political instability.
The protests erupted as residents expressed their anger over the slow response from the local authorities in providing relief and support. Many have been left stranded without access to clean water, electricity, or medical assistance. The floodwaters have damaged homes, roads, and public infrastructure, leaving the city in a state of devastation.
Angela Mansour, a Derna resident, described the dire situation, saying, “We have been abandoned by the authorities. Our homes are destroyed, and our basic needs are not being met. We need immediate assistance to rebuild our lives.”
There have also been calls for the United Nations to establish an office in Derna to oversee the urgent reconstruction of the city and provide compensation to those affected by the floods. The UN presence is needed to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution of aid and resources.
Local NGOs have been working tirelessly to provide assistance, but their efforts alone are insufficient to meet the overwhelming demands of the flood-affected population. The protesters hope that their demonstrations will help draw attention to their plight and compel the authorities to take immediate action.
Alaa ElDrisi, an analyst at the Libyan Crisis Observatory, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The floods in Derna have exposed the vulnerabilities of the city’s infrastructure, which has long been neglected. The authorities must prioritize the needs of the affected population and allocate resources for reconstruction and rehabilitation.”
The protests in Derna highlight the deep frustration and anger felt by the residents who have been left to fend for themselves in the aftermath of the devastating floods. The authorities must swiftly address their concerns and provide the necessary support to alleviate their suffering.
As the protests continue, it is crucial for the international community to take notice and offer assistance to the flood-hit city. The people of Derna deserve swift action and the necessary resources to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.
Tripoli, Libya – (African Boulevard News) – Libyans protest against authorities in flood-hit Derna
