North Koreans in various parts of the country are reeling from the stench of backed-up sewers after record-setting rainfall caused severe flooding at the end of July.
Speaking anonymously, a source in North Hamgyong province told Daily NK recently that Chongjin’s local government is inspecting the sewer system, which has been disrupted by the flooding, and taking steps to resolve those issues.
According to the source, most of the city’s sewers have become backed up because of the torrential downpour in late July.
Toilets have been overflowing at various houses and apartments, while backed-up sewers have been pouring human waste onto the streets, to the horror of pedestrians.
The source said that downtown Chongjin is so clogged with feces and urine that all residents literally have to hold their noses. With human waste spilling over in various spots around the city, there are even concerns about the spread of disease.
Chongjin’s sewer system always backs up when it rains, making it a chronic issue for city dwellers.
Since the heavy rains have caused sewer backups throughout the city, the Chongjin municipal authorities are now forced to improve the sewers.
According to the source, the city’s people’s committee made the following comments during a meeting to assess the current state of the sewers: “People’s health is under threat because the sewers are impacting all areas of hygiene. We will devote all our resources to tackling this issue.”
In keeping with those plans, Chongjin has mobilized workers and machinery to repair the sewers. The people’s committee is currently working on clearing the drains and clearing the feces from the streets.
Government warns about spread of waterborne diseases
Meanwhile, workers are disinfecting public and private bathrooms to prevent the spread of disease. Chongjin officials also warn local residents about health risks from contaminated tap water, advising them to let water settle and boil it before drinking.
Despite these efforts, the sewage problem will likely recur due to the city’s deteriorating infrastructure.
The source said that while municipal authorities are actively addressing the issue, they acknowledge the lack of resources for a comprehensive overhaul of the water and sewer systems.
“We’ll continue to worry about sewage backups every time it rains,” the source added, highlighting the ongoing nature of the problem.
Daily NK works with a network of sources in North Korea, China, and elsewhere. For security reasons, their identities remain anonymous.
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August 20, 2024 at 07:00AM
by DailyNK(North Korean Media)