By Thapelo Molefe
Heavy rains and flooding have severely impacted several municipalities in Limpopo Province, particularly in the Waterberg and Vhembe districts.
The flash floods have so far claimed five lives, displaced residents, and caused widespread damage to homes, businesses and schools.
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba said the Provincial Government acknowledges the extensive damage caused by the severe rains that have affected the province over the past week and is putting plans to intervene whilst predictions are that it will continue to rain until weekend.
She said all districts have reported significant damage to school infrastructure, roads, and homes, with several areas rendered inaccessible.
“We had prayed for rain, but the resulting outpourings has resulted into damages and are not what we had anticipated. It is for this reason that I have asked for a multi-departmental team to be assembled to assist us in assessing the situation in order to deal with the imminent disaster,” said Ramathuba.
“In addition to the Disaster Management Centre, the team will include the Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Social Development and the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements.”
She said the team has also been tasked with supporting displaced families by addressing emergency housing needs, and ensuring that schools are safe for learners as the new academic year commences.
“The team should make immediate interventions, as is currently happening, with visits to affected communities, fixing damaged roads, and addressing schools that have collapsed,” said Ramathuba.
The province has endured relentless rainfall over the past week, with forecasts predicting more rain until the weekend.
“We are saddened by the loss of five lives reported as a result of this rain especially in the Waterberg and Vhembe areas. We pass our condolences to the families and friends of those who have passed away,” said Ramathuba.
She reiterated the need for collaboration with national departments to quantify damages and secure additional resources.
“While this action is taking place, we will engage with national departments to assist in disaster-stricken areas. We must act swiftly to support our communities,” the premier said.
“The reports we have received in the past few days tell of a devastating impact that requires immediate-to-long term interventions from various departments and the national government.”
Ramathuba urged residents to stay alert and avoid crossing overflowing rivers or traveling in dangerous conditions.
“Your safety is our top priority. Please delay unnecessary travel and avoid high risk areas,” she advised.
The premier also reassured residents that the government was committed to addressing the damages and restoring normalcy.
“We will use all available resources within the Department of Public Works to make immediate interventions on roads and bridges that have been swept away. The Department of Social Development is already working to support affected families.”
The Limpopo government has pledged to provide regular updates as assessments and recovery efforts continue.
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