The Head of the Reconstruction and Stability Committee, Hatem Al-Areibi confirmed the initiation of maintenance projects in eastern Libya’s flood-stricken areas.
In a televised statement, Al-Areibi stated “Today, we began our visit from the city of Derna to other affected areas, starting from Sousse and Shahhat to Al-Marj, to announce the commencement of reconstruction and maintenance projects.”
The Committee members were accompanied by companies specialized in the maintenance of the health and educational sectors.
The delegation toured Benghazi University in Al-Marj and Al-Marj Hospital, finding the situation to be extremely dire. “Words fail to describe what we witnessed today, considering how these centers operate in the complete absence of state apparatus for many past years,” Al-Areibi said.
He pointed out that the committee began to send teams to assess the work, and projects needed in these areas. “We are working as one team, whether in the government or the Reconstruction Committee and the General Command of the Libyan National Army (LNA).”
He pledged to “work on reconstruction, with speed and quality according to the required specifications.”
Notably, the Prime Minister of the Libyan Parliament-designated government, Osama Hmmad along with the Executive Director of the Derna Reconstruction and Affected Areas Fund, Engineer Balqasim Haftar, and Al-Areibi, received a delegation from a coalition of Emirati companies specializing in construction and contracting.
The Emirati delegation presented their vision for the reconstruction of Derna and the affected areas, focusing on the region’s unique geographical characteristics. They outlined a comprehensive plan prioritizing the reconstruction process, and addressing the causes behind the collapse of the city’s dams.
The coalition also proposed a detailed strategy for developing water networks, sewage systems, and desalination plants in Derna, adhering to the latest global standards. Emphasis was placed on quality performance, and the speed of completion to ensure the integration of the city’s infrastructure.
The attendees appreciated the United Arab Emirates’ support for the people of the region during Hurricane Daniel. The UAE’s assistance, particularly through an air bridge with Libya, was highlighted as a significant contribution to the affected communities.
Haftar emphasized the importance of maintaining quality and speed in project execution during the meeting. He noted that these factors align with the demands and needs of Derna’s residents.
In September 2023, Derna, a coastal city in eastern Libya, experienced devastating floods triggered by Hurricane Daniel. The unprecedented rainfall led to significant infrastructural damage, including the collapse of dams, and disrupted essential services. The catastrophe highlighted the city’s vulnerability and the urgent need for robust infrastructure and disaster preparedness.