Sudan has issued a plea for international assistance following a devastating landslide that completely obliterated the village of Tarasin in the western Darfur region, resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,000 lives. This natural disaster, one of the most catastrophic in Sudan’s recent history, occurred amidst ongoing civil unrest in the country, which has been grappling with a protracted conflict.
The Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A), the local rebel group that governs the area, reported that the village was “completely leveled.” As it sought help from the United Nations and international organizations, the SLM/A released a statement noting that initial reports indicated a grim toll, estimating that nearly every resident had perished, with only one survivor.
The landslide transpired on Sunday in the Marrah Mountains of Central Darfur after a period of sustained heavy rainfall. The ruling Sovereign Council expressed its sorrow over the incident, mourning the loss of “hundreds of innocent residents” and asserting that “all possible capabilities” were being mobilized to assist the affected community.
UN humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, Luca Renda, voiced his deep sadness regarding the landslide and confirmed that the UN, along with its partners, is taking steps to support those impacted by this calamity. Despite ongoing challenges, including severe weather and resource limitations, local emergency teams have been active in recovering casualties and providing assistance.
Spokesperson for the SLM/A, Mohamed Abdel-Rahman al-Nair, highlighted the remote nature of Tarasin, which is accessible only by foot or by donkey, complicating rescue efforts. The central Marrah Mountains themselves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their cooler climate and higher rainfall, rise over 3,000 meters and are situated approximately 900 kilometers from Sudan’s capital, Khartoum.
The incident highlights the fragile humanitarian situation in Sudan, particularly in Darfur, where a worsening civil conflict is exacerbating conditions. Famine has been declared in parts of the region, and many individuals fleeing violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces are seeking refuge in the mountains. Food and medical supplies are critically scarce, increasing the urgency for humanitarian access and support as emphasized by the International Organization for Migration.
As the conflict continues to evolve, with intensified fighting in urban centers such as el-Fasher, the need for stability and humanitarian outreach remains paramount. The international community’s timely response is essential to address the needs of the affected populations and assist in recovery efforts following this tragic event.
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