Yemen Monitor |Newsroom:
The Yemeni government has announced a major crackdown on illegal construction and launched a strategic project to tackle flooding in Aden, following the recent wave of torrential rains caused by a weather depression.
Prime Minister Salim Saleh Bin Braik chaired an extraordinary meeting in the temporary capital, Aden, on Monday, bringing together ministers, governors, and key officials to assess the damage and approve urgent measures and long-term projects aimed at protecting citizens and critical infrastructure.
Initial reports presented at the meeting highlighted extensive damage to homes, farmland, roads, and public services. Officials emphasized that illegal construction in flood channels represents a “ticking time bomb”, significantly exacerbating both human and material losses.
The Prime Minister called for an immediate halt to all encroachments on valleys and waterways, cancellation of illegal permits, and holding accountable those responsible.
Major Flood Control Initiative
One of the meeting’s key outcomes is the launch of a 13-kilometer flood channel project along Wadi Al-Kabeer, stretching from Al-Waht in the north to Al-Huswa in the south. The project includes protective walls and stone paving designed to safely channel floodwaters and shield residential areas from future disasters. All unauthorized structures along the valley will be removed in line with the Aden Governorate Master Plan (2005–2025).
The government also approved the creation of a national emergency center to unify disaster response efforts at both central and local levels, aiming to build a more effective institutional framework for managing natural hazards.
A “Survival Battle” Against Climate Change
In his opening remarks, Prime Minister described climate change as a “wake-up call threatening Yemen and the region.” He stressed that addressing it is no longer optional but a shared responsibility, involving local authorities, government agencies, civil society, and international organizations.
“It is a battle for survival that requires immediate emergency plans and long-term strategic visions to protect lives, food security, and water resources,” he said.
Ministries and local authorities were instructed to submit accurate damage reports and strengthen coordination with international partners to provide urgent support and relief, with citizens’ safety and lives prioritized above all.
The meeting also approved investigations into violations related to construction permits in flood channels and non-compliant road projects, holding officials accountable for actions that contribute to repeated disasters.
Prime Minister concluded the session by offering condolences to families affected by the recent floods, vowing that the government “will spare no effort to alleviate citizens’ suffering,” and promising that these tragedies would serve as a catalyst for a comprehensive national approach to climate and disaster management.
