THE issue of homeowners ‘owning’ streams has escalated for an Ashley resident whose house is now exposed as the front fence was damaged after the recent heavy rains.
Ashley resident, Norma Ngcolosi, who has been fighting this problem for years, said when she bought the house in 2007, the stream was there, but it was small and it did not look like it could cause any damage.
“The first heavy rains after we moved here opened our eyes about the danger we are facing as the stream just became wider. We have children here, this is also a hazard for them.”
ALSO READ: Pinetown homeowners’ river woes continue
Ngcolosi said the recent floods were the third heavy rains they have experienced.
“This time, the damage was the worst as the whole front wall came down. This is costing me, I did not buy a stream, I bought a house. Is there anyone out there who can help us with this problem? We are scared about what will happen if heavy rains should return. My house is not the only one affected,” she said.
The frustrated resident said they are struggling to even sleep now as they are at a risk with their home exposed is to the criminals.
“Some people did come to clean up, but all the rubble and two huge tyres that were swept in by the water are still blocking the stormwater drain and when the rains returns we are going to be in trouble as the water will not be able to run through the drain,” she said.
She added that she was not convinced by the municipality’s comment which was printed on Friday, 19 April regarding a similar issue facing a Pinetown family.
“Stormwater is not supposed to be our responsibility. I still believe this is not fair to us as ratepayers,” she added.
Ngcolosi’s yard is divided and they have to use a bridge to get from one side to the other, “but with this stream becoming wider, we wont be able to get through to the other property, this bridge will just be useless.”
eThekwini municipality’s previous response
eThekwini Municipality’s spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela responded and said, “With regards to the stream that forms the boundary of the property, we have previously communicated with the resident explaining the Water Act and the Councils Policy with regards to erosion of stream banks,”
“The council is not responsible to protect private property from stream bank erosion if the stream runs through the property or within the property. This is the property owner’s responsibility.”
“However, any protection works proposed, will have to be designed and certified by a professional engineer and submitted to the Building Inspectorate for approval. Our officials will avail themselves to the complainant on site to clarify the matter and provide advice,” said Mayisela.
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