Nearly 1,900 flood victims in Samreboi remain unable to return to their homes despite receding floodwaters, as authorities warn that serious health and safety risks continue to threaten the affected communities.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) says residents must remain in temporary shelters until comprehensive inspections confirm that homes, water sources, and the surrounding environment are safe for human habitation.
NADMO: ‘DON’T RUSH BACK HOME’
Emergency officials have cautioned displaced families against returning prematurely, stressing that hidden dangers remain even after floodwaters have subsided.
According to NADMO, environmental health officers, engineers, and other technical experts are assessing damaged buildings, contaminated water sources, and potential disease risks before giving residents the green light to return.
DISEASE OUTBREAKS A MAJOR CONCERN
Authorities say stagnant floodwater and contaminated surroundings could trigger outbreaks of waterborne diseases if residents return too soon.
Officials insist that public health remains the top priority, warning that unsafe structures and polluted water sources could pose life-threatening risks to returning families.
THOUSANDS STILL DEPEND ON RELIEF SUPPORT
The displaced residents continue to shelter in schools and other temporary accommodation while relief operations remain ongoing.
Government agencies, humanitarian organisations, corporate bodies, and philanthropists have been supplying food, bedding, medical care, and other essential items to support victims as recovery efforts continue.
RECOVERY MOVES INTO A CRITICAL PHASE
While the gradual recession of floodwaters has offered hope to affected families, officials say the focus has now shifted from emergency rescue to safe rehabilitation and reconstruction.
For the hundreds of families eager to return to normal life, authorities have one clear message: no one will be allowed back until every major health and safety risk has been addressed.
