In a tragic turn of events, heavy rains in Freetown led to the collapse of a slope in Devil Hole, Western Area Rural District, destroying six houses and leaving thirteen occupants homeless.
Sierra Leone’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has underscored the dangers associated with clearing natural vegetation and trees on hillsides.
According to the agency, such actions increase the risk of erosion, landslides, and slope collapses, endangering nearby structures and lives.
The recent slope collapse resulted in the destruction of six houses, including four unfinished structures and two completed homes housing thirteen occupants. Fortunately, due to prompt evacuations and adherence to community elders’ advice, no casualties were reported.
During the incident assessment, Ronald Turay, Senior Relief and Response Officer at NDMA, engaged with community members, emphasizing the hazards of deforestation on hillsides.
He explained that removing vegetation leads to increased erosion and landslide risks, especially during heavy rains. Turay also noted that constructing houses on weathered rocks or areas with heavy water flow heightens the likelihood of such incidents.
Turay further warned that houses built on hilltops or with inadequate foundations are more susceptible to damage and collapse. He urged community authorities to cease selling land on hilltops to protect residents’ lives and properties.
The NDMA plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning to strengthen land-use regulations and prevent development on high-risk slopes.
The agency said they will conduct risk assessments to identify areas prone to slope instability, implement early warning systems, and continue public awareness campaigns to educate communities on the dangers of building on hilltops and preventive measures.
