Gov’t announces reconstruction plans on landslide Dschang cliff
By Stephen TADAHA
The 2024 landslide at the Dschang cliff in the Menoua Division of the West Region of Cameroon which killed at least 12 people has caused significant disruptions to traffic between the cities of Dschang and Santchou.
The landslide, which occurred on November 5, 2024, buried a stretch of the National road prompting urgent reconstruction efforts.
To address the issue, the Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Ngannou Djoumessi has unveiled the new alignment for the road, which will reduce the sinuosity and length of the cliff, improving user safety. The new alignment will also feature a drainage system to manage rainwater and permanent water sources.
While reconstruction efforts are underway, users of the stretch will need to use an alternative route, specifically the Melong-Kekem-Bafang-Bandja-Bandjoun section of the National Road No. 5.
Preparatory works are also being done to make alternative earth roads around the cliff passable.
The Dschang cliff area is prone to natural hazards, including landslides, due to its steep terrain and vulnerability to climate change. As a result, local residents are urged to maintain the integrity of hydraulic structures that channel and evacuate water, as their failure can exacerbate disruptions.
In light of the landslide, Key Developments include:
- Reconstruction Efforts: A new alignment for the road has been identified, featuring a drainage system to manage rainwater and permanent water sources.
- Alternative Routes: Users of the regional road R0606 will need to use an alternative route, specifically the Melong-Kekem-Bafang-Bandja-Bandjoun section of National Road No. 5.
- Preparatory Works: Alternative earth roads around the cliff are being made passable.
- Landslide Risk: The Dschang cliff area is prone to natural hazards, including landslides, due to its steep terrain and vulnerability to climate change.
