An urgent appeal from CMWU to prevent sewage flooding, warning of an outbreak of polio and cholera as a result of destroyed infrastructure.
Urgent Appeal to Prevent Sewage Flooding and a Public Health Crisis in Gaza
CMWU extends its thanks to all the humanitarian and international organizations that intervened during the war to support CMWU in providing a minimum level of water and sanitation services.
Amid the continuing Israeli military operations, sanitation facilities and infrastructure have sustained severe damage, significantly increasing the risk of sewage flooding, posing an imminent threat to public health and the environment. Recent records show that sewage flooding and contaminated water have led to an outbreak of polio and are expected to lead to the spread of infectious diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and acute diarrhea. In addition, the foul odors and gases emitted from sewage can cause respiratory problems, particularly among children and the elderly.
Accordingly, CMWU urgently appeals to international humanitarian organizations and donors to provide immediate assistance to address this crisis and prevent further escalation of health risks by supporting emergency repairs and maintenance of infrastructure and sanitation facilities, and providing essential repair materials, including pipes, pumps, spare parts, and heavy equipment. We call on all international humanitarian organizations and donors to respond to this urgent appeal. This support is critical in easing the risks of sewage flooding, protecting public health, and ensuring the safety and dignity of Gaza's residents during this difficult time.
