Recent heavy rainfall has lashed the ancient city of Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. This has led to the collapse of 10 of its buildings. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is believed to have been inhabited for more than 2,000 years. Considered to be some of the world’s first high-rises, the buildings have unique architecture.
Torrential rains have lashed Yemen for the past two weeks, resulting in major damage to buildings and roads.
The structures have red-brick facades decorated with white gypsum moulding in intricate patterns. The structures are usually compared to gingerbread houses. A style that symbolises Sanaa. Many of the houses are private homes. In a statement, Abdullah al-Kabsi, the culture minister in the Houthi administration, said that the rebels are working with international organisations. They are seeking aid in dealing with the destruction.
The houses have withstood centuries in Yemen, however, this year’s seasonal rains have proved too powerful. The once iconic buildings are now massive piles of rubble and wooden beams.
The Houthi rebels have been in control of Sanaa since almost the start of Yemen’s war, eight years ago. 80 other buildings were reportedly heavily damaged and need urgent repair. No immediate reports of death or injury from the collapses have surfaced.
Here are some pictures of the destruction and despair:
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Al-Kabsi insists that UNESCO bear some responsibility for salvaging and restoring the structures, given the area’s history. He adds that years of neglect under the previous government has shown the cracks.
A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, to drive the Houthis back – who took over most of the country – including Sanaa. They want to restore the internationally-recognised government that was forced out by the rebels. Earlier this month, the warring sides agreed to extend an April truce for another two months.
