Environmental Conditions in Palestinian Camps in Lebanon: UNRWA’s Seasonal Challenge Response Plans

Introduction

Palestinian camps in Lebanon face challenging environmental conditions, with issues rooted in the establishment of Israel in 1948, which led many Palestinians to seek refuge in Lebanon. These camps developed haphazardly, leading to weak infrastructure. With the onset of summer and winter, challenges increase, necessitating comprehensive plans and efforts from UNRWA and other organizations to improve environmental and living conditions for residents.

Environmental Reality and Infrastructure in the Camps

Palestinian camps in Lebanon feature old and inadequate infrastructure, including housing, sewage networks, water supply systems, and electrical networks. These infrastructures suffer from ongoing problems that require regular maintenance and updates to ensure residents’ safety.

Environmental Services Provided by UNRWA

UNRWA provides essential environmental services in the camps, including:

1. Waste Management: Collecting and transporting waste to disposal sites.
2. Sewage Systems: Providing and maintaining sewage networks.
3. Water Supply: Providing clean drinking water.
4. Environmental Health: Conducting awareness and education programs on environmental health and disease prevention.

Challenges Facing UNRWA

1. Funding: Chronic underfunding impacts UNRWA’s ability to deliver services effectively.
2. Overpopulation: Increasing population imposes additional pressure on limited infrastructure.
3. Pollution: Environmental pollution from waste and improper sewage disposal.
4. Political Situation: Lebanon’s volatile political situation affects UNRWA’s ability to implement and maintain projects.

Waterborne Diseases Due to Environmental Conditions

Poor environmental conditions in the camps increase the risk of waterborne and foodborne diseases such as:

• Cholera
• Typhoid
• Dysentery
• Acute diarrhea

Water and Sanitation Systems in the Camps

The water systems in the camps rely on old and insufficiently updated networks, causing significant issues in water distribution and safety. Sanitation systems suffer from frequent blockages and sewage leaks into streets and homes, creating unhealthy environments.

Example: Jaleel (Wavel) Camp in Baalbek

Jaleel Camp in Baalbek faces significant challenges in water supply and sanitation. The camp relies on local wells and old distribution networks, leading to issues with water quality and frequent interruptions. Sewage systems in Jaleel Camp face similar problems, with occasional leaks into homes and streets, increasing disease risks.

Recommendations

1. Increased Funding: International community support for UNRWA to improve water and sanitation services.
2. Infrastructure Updates: Upgrading water and sewage networks to be more efficient and safe.
3. Awareness and Education: Implementing awareness programs on hygiene and public health.
4. Local and International Cooperation: Strengthening cooperation between UNRWA, the Lebanese government, and international organizations to improve environmental conditions in the camps.

UNRWA’s Seasonal Challenge Response Plans

Summer

1. Improving Water Supply: Drilling new wells, maintaining existing ones, distributing water via mobile tanks, and installing filters to improve water quality.
2. Awareness Programs: Conducting campaigns on efficient water use and workshops on preventing heat-related illnesses.
3. Distributing Relief Supplies: Providing fans, cooling devices, and hygiene supplies to prevent skin diseases.

Winter

1. Improving Infrastructure: Maintaining sewage networks, repairing damaged homes, and enhancing rainwater drainage systems.
2. Distributing Relief Supplies: Providing blankets, winter clothing, and heating fuel.
3. Preparing Shelters: Equipping temporary shelters and providing emergency supplies like food, water, and medicine.

Role of Other Organizations

1. Community Associations: Providing medical support through mobile clinics and free services and organizing donation campaigns.
2. International Organizations: Offering financial and logistical support and training programs.
3. Lebanese Government: Coordinating with UNRWA and international organizations and facilitating permits and approvals for infrastructure projects.

Conclusion

UNRWA and other organizations play a vital role in improving living conditions in Palestinian camps in Lebanon, especially during summer and winter. Through well-planned strategies, these organizations strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for residents, requiring collective efforts and cooperation to ensure the success of these plans and achieve their goals.

Bassam JAMIL