By Alicia Mmashakana
Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, accompanied by key government and municipal officials, conducted a site visit to assess the extensive damage caused by recent floods in the Waterberg District.
The delegation included MEC for Public Works, Roads, and Infrastructure, Ernest Rachoene; Executive Mayor of Waterberg District, Jack Maeko; and local Mayor of Modimolle-Mookgophong, Sechele Sibulai.
The team visited severely affected areas, including Ward 12: Chris Hani Street, where a bridge was washed away, and Ward 8 Phomolong, where a road was completely destroyed.
The relentless rains in Limpopo over the past week have caused widespread destruction to roads, schools, and homes, rendering several areas inaccessible, particularly those in the Waterberg and Vhembe districts, where the flooding claimed five lives.
The Waterberg District Municipality, the largest in the province, covers over a third of its geographical area and borders Botswana at five points: Groblersbrug, Stockpoort, Derdepoort, Zanzibar, and Platjan. It comprises five local municipalities: Bela-Bela, Lephalale, Modimolle-Mookgophong, Mogalakwena, and Thabazimbi.
“We have received numerous messages through social media, WhatsApp, and direct calls detailing the devastation caused by the floods across all districts. Our response must prioritise residents’ needs as we assess the situation and implement necessary measures, said Ramathuba.
Wednesday’s visit was meant to evaluate the situation on the ground and identify interventions to support affected communities effectively.
Officials visited specific areas that were severely impacted, including *Ward 12: Chris Hani Street*, where a bridge was washed away, and *Ward 8: Phomolong*, where a road was destroyed. PHOTO: Facebook/Office of the Premier
On Tuesday, Ramathuba and MEC for Public Works, Roads, and Infrastructure, Ernest Rachoene, inspected a potential sinkhole on the R71 road in Magoebaskloof.
“Trucks are not advised to use this road. We’ve decided that the transport department will address the issue while SANRAL continues work on repairing the road. In the meantime, the Sekgopo Road (R81) serves as an alternative route,” Ramathuba said.
The overflow of the Palala Dam following heavy rainfall has led to significant flooding in the region, forcing the evacuation of Witpoort Hospital.
The Limpopo Department of Health announced that the hospital would temporarily shut down for safety and operational reasons.
Health MEC spokesperson Kapudi Moagi said the safety and well-being of patients, staff, and the surrounding community are top priorities.
“The evacuation is being carried out with the utmost care and urgency to ensure all patients are transferred to a safe environment,” said Moagi.
Moagi said community members requiring medical assistance are advised to visit Shongoane Clinic, Seleka Clinic, or Abbotspoort Clinic.
For emergency care, Ellisras Hospital remains fully operational and equipped to provide services during this period.
To ensure continuity of care, Witpoort Hospital’s staff and resources are being relocated to nearby facilities.
“We urge all community members to remain calm and follow the guidance of local authorities and healthcare professionals,” Moagi said.
The department assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided as necessary.
Officials visited specific areas that were severely impacted, including *Ward 12: Chris Hani Street*, where a bridge was washed away, and *Ward 8: Phomolong*, where a road was destroyed. PHOTO: Facebook/Office of the Premier
INSIDE METROS