announced on Monday an investment of S/140 million (about US$41.2 million) to finance desilting works in Piura region ahead of El Niño phenomenon.

The Head of State explained that the funding will be used to hire workers, purchase fuel, and carry out operations at 60 critical sites, with the goal of completing the works within a maximum of four months.

The top official said that, ahead of El Niño, the priority is to protect people’s lives, especially those of children and older adults, as well as the agricultural sector.

After stressing that the Government would “step up the pace” to expedite public works, the President announced that she will visit Piura region regularly to oversee progress in riverbed cleaning and other interventions.

The Head of State called on local residents to help monitor the implementation of public works.

Likewise, the top official urged the private sector to join efforts to prepare for and reduce the impact of El Niño.

In coordination with the National Civil Defense Institute (INDECI), shelters and warehouses are being set up, she said.

Meanwhile, international assistance is being sought to secure additional tents, motor pumps, food, and water in order to be better prepared.

The President also said she will instruct the Ministry of Health to begin dengue vaccination.

“We have to work together,” Fujimori pointed out.

The working visit to Piura included an assessment of the condition of the Chira and Piura Rivers, as well as visits to the Potreritos, Limonal, and Los Ejidos areas, where riverbed cleaning and desilting works are underway.