Impact of Military Attacks on Sudan’s Infrastructure: People’s Suffering and the Water and Electricity Crisis

11th April 2025

3 minutes read

Impact of Military Attacks on Sudan’s Infrastructure: People’s Suffering and the Water and Electricity Crisis

Sudan has recently witnessed painful events reflecting the ongoing internal conflict between rival military forces. One of the most significant events has been the military attacks carried out by the Sudanese Armed Forces, which resulted in the destruction of key infrastructure in the country. Chief among these was the attack on the Merowe transformer station — the main electricity provider for northern Sudan. The attack led to widespread power and water outages, causing serious repercussions on the daily lives of citizens in towns and villages in the north.

Destruction of the Merowe Station and Its Impact on Infrastructure

The Merowe station is one of Sudan’s most vital facilities, playing a central role in supplying electricity to vast areas of the north. The attack severely damaged large parts of its infrastructure, causing a complete blackout in many surrounding regions, including Nile State and its main cities such as Atbara, Shendi, and villages like Al-Mahmiya and Bajrawiya, along with several rural areas.

The power outage negatively affected daily life, with many essential services — such as hospitals, bakeries, and public facilities — coming to a standstill, increasing citizens’ suffering. Given the ongoing conflict and war, the loss of electricity and water has added yet another layer of hardship for people already struggling under harsh economic conditions.

Social and Economic Consequences of the Military Attacks

The military attacks on vital infrastructure have dealt a severe blow to the country’s foundation. Their effects extend beyond electricity and water shortages, leading to deep social and economic consequences. The living conditions of citizens in affected areas have worsened drastically, with mobility and access to basic needs becoming more difficult in both urban and rural zones.

Displacement and Its Effect on Stability

In addition to the destruction of infrastructure, the attacks have forced many residents of the north to flee their homes due to the destruction of housing and essential facilities they relied on. This mass displacement has increased pressure on other cities receiving these displaced populations, intensifying the humanitarian and economic crises in those areas.

Widespread Public Discontent

The recent events and the resulting dire living conditions have caused widespread public discontent across Sudan. This frustration isn’t limited to the directly affected areas, but has spread to many other states, where citizens believe the authorities have failed to effectively manage the crisis. The infrastructure destruction has not only impacted people’s lives in the short term but also placed a heavy burden on the Sudanese government, already struggling to meet citizens’ basic needs amid the crisis.

The Aim of the Military Campaign

The ongoing military campaign launched by the Sudanese Armed Forces is coming at a steep cost to the Sudanese people. Strikes on vital facilities such as the Merowe station have not only damaged national infrastructure but have further deteriorated the country’s humanitarian situation. Although the campaign may aim to secure strategic gains for the conflicting parties, the suffering and loss of essential resources inflicted upon the Sudanese population is unacceptable.

The continued military attacks that destroy infrastructure and exact a heavy toll on the Sudanese people pose a major challenge to the future and stability of Sudan. The fighting must stop, and peaceful solutions must be pursued to safeguard civilian lives and preserve the nation’s assets.

Conclusion

Military attacks in Sudan now pose a genuine threat to the country’s stability and the safety of its people. The strikes on the Merowe transformer station and other vital facilities have left the country in disarray and destruction, severely affecting daily life in the north and beyond. Ultimately, a comprehensive and peaceful political solution is urgently needed to rebuild Sudan and restore national stability.