International Desk
Record rainfall in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week caused unprecedented flooding, causing widespread damage. The government of the United Arab Emirates has announced a package of 200 million dirhams or 544 million US dollars for the repair of roads and houses.
After the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum said, “We have learned a great lesson in dealing with heavy rains.” The cabinet has approved two billion dirhams to deal with the damage to the houses of the citizens.
Wednesday’s announcement came more than a week after unprecedented flooding hit the desert nation. Last week’s floods turned desert roads into rivers. Dubai Airport, the world’s busiest airport for international passengers, remains closed for extended periods. From Tuesday (April 16) to Thursday (April 18) last week, 2,155 flights were canceled at Dubai Airport. Another 115 flights were diverted. Dubai International Airport did not return to full capacity until yesterday Tuesday.
A cabinet committee has been tasked with overseeing the work on this package. Besides, compensation has been distributed with the help of federal and local authorities. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed is the ruler of Dubai, one of the seven sheikhdoms of the United Arab Emirates. His state received the highest rainfall. Dubai recorded the highest rainfall in its 75-year history.
Sheikh Mohammed also said in a post that ministers have approved another committee to assess infrastructure damage and rebuild.
Sheikh Mohammad said, the severity of the situation was unprecedented. But we are a country that learns from every experience.
Sarabangla/IE
