Race to find survivors after Sudan landslide kills hundreds

A catastrophic landslide in Sudan’s Darfur region has resulted in hundreds of deaths, with estimates ranging from 370 to over 1,000, and rescue operations are urgently underway amidst challenging conditions exacerbated by the ongoing civil conflict. The landslide occurred on Sunday in the remote village of Tarseen, located in the Marra Mountains, following days of heavy rainfall that triggered the disaster, completely destroying the settlement and leaving only one known survivor. Casualty figures are highly disputed due to the area’s inaccessibility. The United Nations has reported at least 370 fatalities based on initial assessments, while the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A), which controls the region, claims the death toll could exceed 1,000. This discrepancy highlights the difficulties in verifying information in conflict zones. Rescue efforts are being led by local teams with minimal resources. So far, they have recovered nine bodies, but their operations are severely hampered by ongoing heavy rains and the rugged terrain. The lack of specialized equipment and poor infrastructure is slowing down the response. International aid is mobilizing, with the UN coordinating the dispatch of essential supplies such as food, water, tents, and medical kits. However, logistical challenges, including the absence of helicopters and impassable roads during the rainy season, are delaying the delivery of assistance. Aid organizations emphasize the urgent need for intervention. The Marra Mountains have become a sanctuary for many displaced by Sudan’s civil war, which began in April 2023 between the army and the Rapid Support Forces. This conflict has caused widespread famine and violence, particularly in Darfur, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. Appeals for help have been made by local and international leaders. Darfur’s governor, Minni Minnawi, described the landslide as a humanitarian tragedy beyond local capacity, while the African Union urged warring parties to cease fire to facilitate aid delivery. This disaster underscores the vulnerability of conflict-affected populations to natural hazards. As the situation develops, the focus remains on search and rescue operations, with hopes that increased international support will alleviate the suffering and aid in the long-term recovery of the region.