41 killed in Ethiopia landslide

At least 41 people were killed by landslides in Wolaita zone, SNNP regional state of Ethiopia, following heavy rains in five districts on Monday, according to a report by local media, Fana Broadcasting Corporate (FBC).

A road linking Wolaita zone with Dawro zone and a bridge which connects Wolaita town with Sidama zone have been damaged by floods, said the report.

Rescue efforts were underway in collaboration with security workers to save people missing in the landslide, Alemayehu Mamo, head of the Wolaita Zone police department told FBC on Tuesday.

However, flooded roads and the landslide made the rescue efforts difficult, he said.

Those injured by the landslide were taken to medical centres, he indicated. According to him, 28 bodies were recovered so far.

The regional state, in partnership with the federal government, will work to identify flood-prone areas in order to prevent similar incidents.

--IANS

ahm/