STAPLETON Road in Pinetown was opened yesterday, Thursday, June 29, while Rodger Sishi Road in Westville will be fully operational this afternoon.
This is according to City management who reported that their officials have been working tirelessly to restore basic services and to bring the situation to normalcy after this week’s storm.
Also read: Stapleton and Caversham roads closed once again due to heavy rain
Preliminary assessments show that the areas that bore the brunt of the storm are Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, St Wendolins, Nazareth, New Germany, Westville, Reservoir Hills, Umkomaas, Mbumbulu and Folweni.
In their statement, eThekwini Municipality reported that there are four recorded fatalities and seven people are still missing.
“Psychological support, as well as clinical services, are being provided to affected families.”
The City said a total of 138 houses were destroyed.
“Twenty-seven people are still housed at Amaoti Hall, down from the initial 46. The families are being supported with necessities such as meals, toiletries, blankets, and mattresses. Teams from Human Settlements are finalising plans to resettle the families.”
According to the City, damage to municipal infrastructure is extensive, particularly to the water and electricity network.
“Many communities remain without water and electricity. Technicians are expediting repairs, and supply to a number of areas has already been restored. The municipality regrets the inconvenience to communities and is appealing for patience.
Also read: WATCH: Homes destroyed as tornado hits Inanda
“Many substations, waterworks installations, roads, bridges and libraries have been damaged. Furthermore, many municipal offices are affected by the loss of power and water, which may impact their ability to offer services. Repairs have started in a number of areas.
“Cleaning operations on affected roads are still underway, and most roads have been cleared of debris and are now open to the public.”
Today, a major clean-up operation was conducted at Blue Lagoon and the beachfront precinct.
The City added that its disaster management teams continue with assessments and will b offering assistance and support to those who are affected.
According to the South African Weather Service, no rain is expected over the next few days.
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