Republic of Mauritius- Survey to be undertaken to identify causes of recent flooding, says PM

The press conference was a follow-up of an emergency meeting with several stakeholders namely Ministers, Private Parliamentary Secretaries, and representatives from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre (NDRRMC), the Mauritius Meteorological Services, the Police, and the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service, which was organised to take stock of the situation following the recent torrential rains which hit Mauritius during the weekend.

Since 2013, Prime Minister recalled, Port Louis has been falling prey to rising water levels caused by torrential rains and flash floods.  As temperatures rise, abnormal weather patterns such as more powerful cyclones, erratic rainfall, and intense droughts and floods are predicted to worsen over time, hence the need to take urgent actions, he emphasised.

Mr Jugnauth stated that as soon as the torrential rain alert was lifted last Sunday, officers from the NDRRMC carried out an analysis exercise on the causes of flooding in the region of Port Louis.

Government, the Prime Minister pointed out, is investing massively in infrastructural projects especially drains. In fact, Rs 1 billion have been disbursed for implementation of projects at the level of local government including the construction and rehabilitation of drains.  Several other projects are in the pipeline and will be implemented shortly while priority will be given to other projects through emergency procurement, he added.  Furthermore, he indicated, a Land Drainage Master Plan is in the preparation phase and will be used for topographical surveys and drain construction.

Speaking about victims of the recent torrential rains, Mr Jugnauth pointed out that a survey is being carried out to determine the number of families which have been affected and the extent of damage on property and goods.  Since Monday, he said, the victims can seek compensation which is being disbursed by the Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity, and Environment and Sustainable Development.

A total of 314 victims has sought refuge in social welfare centres around Mauritius since the country has been hit by torrential rains during the weekend.  They are: Riche Terre (192), Roche Bois (31), St Croix (19), and Riche Lieu (72).