Gov't orders residents living near 178 dams to immediately vacate or be evicted

The evacuation orders target those living in landslide and mudslide-prone areas, as well as those residing within the immediate neighbourhoods of 178 public and private dams that are approaching or have already filled to capacity.

The evacuation orders come as communities likely to be impacted by floods and landslides called on the government to offer them alternative relocation sites.

"All persons residing contiguous to the dams and water reservoirs are ordered to vacate the said areas immediately and in any case, within 24 Hours effective today, failing which they will be subjected to mandatory evacuation for their safety," said Kindiki in a statement on Thursday.

The government has assured affected individuals that temporary shelter, as well as food and essential supplies, will be provided to support them during this challenging period.

Additionally, the evacuation process will be conducted between the hours of 6:00 AM and 6:30 PM to ensure the safety of both residents and response teams.

National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) have been directed to collaborate closely with county governments, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders to facilitate the evacuation process in a timely and humane manner. 

Furthermore, the directive extends to individuals residing within the 30-meter riparian corridor of rivers and other watercourses nationwide. They are also ordered to vacate immediately for their safety, with illegal settlements in these riparian areas to be removed accordingly.

As the evacuation process unfolds, the government urges residents in the affected areas to cooperate fully with the authorities and adhere to the directives issued for their safety.