Dozens of Sudanese refugees tragically lost their lives last week as they attempted to cross into Egypt via Aswan during a severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching nearly 50 degrees Celsius. The refugees, carried inside open trucks by smugglers, succumbed to sunstroke, dehydration, or road accidents along the perilous journey.
According to reports, about 50 Sudanese immigrants, including elderly citizens, women, and children, have been found deceased in Aswan hospitals. The Sudanese Consul in Aswan advised against taking such risks and urged people to seek safety in Sudan rather than risking their lives.
The devastating heatwave has also claimed the lives of 40 Egyptians in Aswan, prompting calls for government intervention to alleviate the situation. Award-winning Sudanese filmmaker Amjad Abu Alala mourned the loss of a relative who fell victim to a heatstroke in Aswan.
The tragic incident highlights the dangers faced by refugees seeking safety in neighboring countries amid conflicts and crises. The Egyptian government’s visa requirements for Sudanese nationals have added further challenges, delaying entry for months.
This heartbreaking event serves as a reminder of the risks and hardships faced by refugees seeking a better life, urging for more compassionate and effective measures to ensure their safety and well-being.