Landslide Devastates Sudan’s Darfur Village, Claims Over 1,000 Lives
A catastrophic landslide in the village of Tarasin, located in Sudan’s Darfur region, has resulted in the deaths of an estimated 1,000 people. This disaster, reported by the Sudan Liberation Movement-Army, marks one of the deadliest natural calamities in the country’s recent history. The landslide occurred on August 27, 2023, following days of heavy rainfall that saturated the region.
According to the statement issued by the rebel group, the entire village was “completely leveled to the ground,” with only one confirmed survivor. The statement emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling on the United Nations and international aid organizations to assist in recovering the bodies and providing support to those affected by this tragedy.
Impact of Ongoing Conflict on Relief Efforts
The landslide comes at a time when Sudan is grappling with a devastating civil war that erupted in April 2023. Tensions between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have escalated into widespread violence, particularly in the capital, Khartoum, and surrounding areas. This ongoing conflict has severely restricted access to many regions, including Darfur, complicating relief efforts for victims of natural disasters.
The Marrah Mountains, where Tarasin village is located, are characterized by their rugged volcanic terrain and span approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) southwest of el-Fasher. This area has become increasingly inaccessible due to the violent clashes and restrictions imposed by the warring factions. As a result, humanitarian agencies are finding it difficult to reach displaced families seeking refuge from the ongoing conflict.
Historical Context and Vulnerabilities
Sudan has a history of suffering from seasonal rains and flooding, which have claimed hundreds of lives annually. The landslide in Tarasin village underscores the vulnerabilities faced by communities in the region, particularly in light of the deteriorating security situation that hinders effective disaster response.
The tragedy has sparked international concern, as the scale of the disaster adds to the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in a country already enduring immense hardships. The situation demands immediate attention from global aid organizations to provide necessary support and resources for recovery efforts.
In summary, the landslide in Tarasin village is a stark reminder of the dual crises facing Sudan—natural disasters compounded by the ongoing conflict. As the nation seeks to recover, the call for international aid becomes increasingly critical to address both immediate needs and long-term stability.
