The Intelligence from The Economist One dam thing after another? Ukraine and reconstruction
Jun 7, 2024
Oliver Jones, News editor at The Economist, discusses the devastating aftermath of the Kakhovka dam destruction in Ukraine, revealing its lasting impacts on communities and the urgent need for reconstruction. Avantika Chilkoti, an international correspondent, provides insight into Narendra Modi's political landscape as he navigates changes in leadership. Anne Rowe fondly remembers Egyptologist Barry Kemp, highlighting his significant discoveries in Akhenaten's city that shed light on ancient Egyptian culture.
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Kakhovka Dam Destruction
- The Kakhovka dam explosion flooded an area the size of Kyiv, causing immense destruction and displacement.
- Thousands of buildings were submerged, and people waited on rooftops to be rescued, with damages exceeding $1.5 billion.
Post-Disaster Reconstruction
- The Kakhovka dam disaster sparked discussions about Ukraine's future reconstruction, highlighting social, economic, political, and environmental challenges.
- The disaster's impact provides insights into broader reconstruction questions Ukraine will face after the war.
Environmental Impact and Rewilding
- While the dam's destruction caused significant environmental damage, the reservoir bed's unexpected diverse vegetation growth has created an opportunity.
- This has sparked debate about rewilding the area, presenting a potential environmental benefit amidst the devastation.