Three dead, 850 families impacted by landslides in southern Tajikistan

Landslides triggered by heavy rains and mudflows have struck the Khatlon region in southern Tajikistan. According to official data, three people have been killed, while several others were taken to hospital.

President Emomali Rahmon expressed condolences to the families of the victims and instructed relevant services to promptly deal with the aftermath of the disaster and provide assistance to those affected, Caliber.Az reports, citing Tajik media.

The city of Kulob was among the hardest hit. Rescue teams, along with regional and local authorities, are currently working on site. Local residents are also helping to clear the debris, with around 20 pieces of equipment deployed.

Military personnel from the Ministry of Defence and the Interior Ministry have also been mobilised. Streets, gardens, and canals flooded with mud are being cleared jointly. Where manual tools are insufficient, heavy machinery—including excavators, tractors, and trucks—is being used. Although the water has receded, it has left behind stones and thick mud.

According to reports, the disaster occurred during the night of May 1–2, when intense rainfall in the foothills triggered mudflows that moved towards the city. Residents say that by 7:30 a.m., many areas were already inundated with mud, with some unable to open their gates to get outside. Three people lost their lives, and several streets were flooded.

Prime Minister Kohir Rasulzoda, along with regional officials and heads of relevant ministries, inspected the situation on site. At a meeting of the national emergency headquarters, it was reported that 850 families had been affected. They will be provided with food, essential supplies, and one-off financial assistance.

Authorities emphasised the urgency of clearing mud deposits before they harden. However, weather forecasts remain unfavourable, with further instability and possible mudflows expected due to continued rainfall.

First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defence, Khotamsho Latifzoda, stressed the need to urgently clear riverbeds and canals, particularly in Kulob, where the total length of affected channels reaches about six kilometres.

At the same meeting, Prime Minister Rasulzoda instructed authorities to intensify reinforcement and preventive work in high-risk areas and to swiftly develop and present projects aimed at strengthening riverbanks and protective structures.

By Vugar Khalilov