On Monday, Tobruk’s Mayor, Faraj al-Khattabiya revealed that approximately 600 families have sought refuge in Tobruk.
On 10 September, a devastating storm swept through several eastern regions of Libya, notably the cities of Derna, Benghazi, Al-Bayda, Al-Marj, and Sousse. This resulted in significant destruction and led to the loss of thousands of lives, injuries, and missing individuals.
In a press conference, Al-Khattabiya stated, “Tobruk has warmly accommodated close to 600 families escaping the turmoil from neighbouring regions.” He expressed gratitude to the city’s residents who’ve opened their homes. Furthermore, he pointed out, “Local businesses in Tobruk have been extending crucial aid to these displaced families.”
Yet, the Mayor voiced his concerns over the deafening silence, from the central authorities. “We’ve repeatedly reached out to officials from the respective governments seeking support for these families, but, disappointingly, there’s been no response,” he remarked.
Floods from storm Daniel have inflicted substantial damage in northeast Libya, affecting housing, healthcare facilities, water networks, and other infrastructures. As per United Nations data, the catastrophe has prompted the displacement of 42,000 individuals as of mid-October.
Relief entities, diligently operating in the field, performed comprehensive needs assessments throughout the flood-affected areas in late September. Vital necessities were identified, with food, health services, protection, shelter, and sanitation emerging as critical needs.
Recent statistics unveil a tragic scene, recording over 4,000 fatalities and approximately 10,000 people missing, attributed to the massive floods and torrents spawned by storm “Daniel”.
Last week, the Libyan Parliament-designated Prime Minister, Osama Hammad provided a comprehensive brief on the government’s preparedness and its strategy for reconstructing the city of Derna, and areas adversely affected by the deadly storm Daniel.
This came during a meeting with the Speaker of the Parliament, Ageela Saleh. The meeting was also attended by the Chairman of the Benghazi-based Reconstruction and Stabilization Committee.
Hammad also provided the extensive endeavours his government took towards managing the catastrophe in Derna, and exhaustive details on the support extended by the executive branches to all impacted zones.
As well as introducing a comprehensive development plan for every municipality. He has pledged compensation for the affected residents and revealed that the government has earmarked emergency funds for all the storm-struck municipalities.