Heavy Rains Block Key Aid Route in Sudan's Darfur, Famine Looms

Heavy rains have blocked a crucial supply route into Sudan's Darfur region, where experts warn of imminent famine. The World Food Programme's convoys are stranded, and talks are ongoing to find alternative routes. The 15-month civil war has displaced millions, escalating the hunger crisis.

Heavy rains have obstructed a vital supply route into Sudan's Darfur region, raising fears of an impending famine, according to a World Food Programme (WFP) official. Refugees have been driven to eating grass, a U.N. official reported.

Eddie Rowe, WFP's Country Director, told Reuters that thousands of tons of aid are stuck at the Chad border's Tina crossing, prompting negotiations with the army-aligned government for an all-weather route further south called Adre.

Talks are ongoing in Geneva, with the Rapid Support Forces reaching an understanding with the U.N. but not the army. Meanwhile, the U.S. has pledged an additional $203 million in aid, but the WFP's efforts remain significantly underfunded.

(With inputs from agencies.)