By Khadidja Oumar Abdoulaye
As the rainy season approaches, Mahamat Assileck Halata, Chad’s Minister of Spatial Planning, Urbanism, and Housing, undertook a crucial field visit on June 25, 2026. The inspection focused on various infrastructures belonging to the Integrated Project for Flood Control and Urban Resilience (PILIER) within N’Djamena. The primary objective was to assess the progress of ongoing works and confirm the operational readiness of these vital structures designed to shield the capital city from potential flooding, despite recent acts of vandalism impacting some equipment.
The ministerial delegation commenced its tour at the Lamadji pumping station in the 10th arrondissement commune, subsequently visiting the Chagoua municipal hangar, the N’Djari canal, the Toumaï Palace drainage systems, the wastewater treatment plant, the Pedro site, and various road construction projects. A stop was also made at the 7th arrondissement municipal hangar to review the equipment and resources deployed for flood mitigation efforts.
Minister Halata emphasized that this extensive tour is an integral part of the government’s ongoing commitment to monitor and enhance actions aimed at mitigating risks associated with severe weather. He recalled a recent evaluation meeting held after the last rainfall, which served to gauge the status of infrastructure projects supported by the World Bank. While at the Lamadji pumping station, Minister Halata strongly condemned the theft of essential electrical cables, which are critical for the facility’s full functionality. These valuable components, he noted, were deliberately cut and removed by unidentified individuals.
Despite this act of sabotage, the Minister reassured the public that the station remains operational, thanks to the four other pumps still actively in service. “Even with the cable theft, the station continues to operate. The available equipment ensures we can pump water effectively when needed,” he stated.
He further clarified that new replacement cables have already been ordered, again with the support of the World Bank. Their delivery is anticipated by July 1st, and technical officials expect installation to be completed within one to two days thereafter. The inspection continued to the Sabangali pumping station and then to the generator workshop serving the 10th arrondissement’s pumping stations. The tour concluded in the Toukra-Mousgoum neighborhood, where the Minister met with residents whose homes had been demolished by the 9th arrondissement municipality. He offered assurances regarding the reconstruction and rehabilitation of their dwellings.
Minister Halata reiterated that this inspection mission is designed to guarantee that all PILIER project infrastructures will be fully operational. This ensures the reduction of flood risks and strengthens N’Djamena’s urban resilience throughout the upcoming rainy season. He confirmed that, based on his on-site observations, all systems are functioning effectively.
In closing, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s steadfast dedication to infrastructure projects and rainwater management initiatives, underscoring their crucial role in safeguarding communities and fostering sustained improvements in living conditions for the populace.
