Storms wreak havoc in Limpopo

BURGERSFORT

 

 

There were mixed reactions on the heavy rains that were caused by tropical storm

Eloise over the past week.

Some locals rejoiced, saying it was much needed rainfall. Others complained of the destructions caused by the storms.

 

In Sekhukhune, there was not much damage, except for local routes that are getting worse due to the rainfall. Some properties were slightly damaged, and a few internal bridges were slightly destructed.

 

The Tubatse River and other local streams were overflowing.  At Ga Moloi, the road between Marishane and Ga Kgoshi Tisane was closed off as the local bridge was overflowing. The bridge from Modimole  to Ga Mashabela on road D4180 was also marginally damaged.

 

In Praktiseer, the internal streets were muddy and locals struggled to manoeuvre around. The R37 was also blocked with sand, stones and other debris at Ga Mashamothane and also at Ga Manyaka.

 

On Friday, the Sekhukhune District Municipality had released a statement urging locals to be on high alert because of extreme rainfall. They warned residents who stayed in mud houses and those who put stones or heavy objects on their rooftops to be vigilant.

The (South African Weather Services) SAWS also warned of possible “flooding, damage to roads and bridges, as well as possible displacement of affected communities.”

Meanwhile the Department of Social Development together with its agencies SASSA and the National Development Agency activated the social relief of distress programme in preparation for assistance to households that were affected by heavy the rainfall in Limpopo.

 

Psychosocial support teams have also been activated to work hand in hand with other sector departments to provide assistance to people who might be affected and displaced by the floods.

 

MEC for Social Development Nkakareng Rakgoale said social workers, Community Development Practioners, NDA and SASSA officials have joined officials from other departments and municipalities to ensure that they respond immediately should the need arise.

 

“In response to this imminent natural disaster, the Department of Social Development is ready to provide social relief of distress which includes food parcels, blankets and other basic amenities to displaced families.

“ We have also started mobilising the private sector to come on board to ensure that we beef up our state of readiness of cooked meals at CNDCs, particularly in the Vhembe and Mopani Districts. The department’s agency, SASSA has also made 600 blankets and sanitisers available to ensure that we react promptly to our people as an assessment will be conducted by our officials on the ground.” said MEC Rakgoale.