OSCE mitigates disaster risks in Tajikistan by clearing flow channels

AKIPRESS.COM - The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe provided logistical support enabling Tajikistan's Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence of Shahritus district, in partnership with local government and the Water Management of Lower Kafirnigan basin, to clear 45,900 m3 of soil and other debris from flow channels in three rural villages of Shahritus district in Khatlon region. Over 620 households, schools and highways were secured. A debris flow is a mixture of water and rocks that can wash away large items such as boulders and trees. Debris flows travel rapidly down slopes and along drainage channels and can pose a substantial threat to communities and their infrastructure. Mitigation actions can prevent loss of life and social and economic activities, and reduce the risk of damage to property and natural resources.
"Every year our population suffers from mudflows that can reach up to one meter. This damages our houses, livestock and agriculture. This year, thanks to the OSCE and the local government, over 4 km of flow channels were cleared. We are very thankful for this," said Ysuspov Odiljon, community leader of Pakhtaobod village in Shahrituz district.