As the first part of its flood recovery and rehabilitation process, KwaDukuza Municipality (KDM) has announced a ‘mop-up’ plan.
Just more than R18-million has been allocated for the project, which began last Friday and is scheduled to run until at least May 9.
The funds have been drawn directly from the Civil Engineering and Human Settlements operating budget, with future shortfalls to be planned for in the next adjustment budget.
The plan was welcomed by councillors who have been the first port of call for flood affected residents since the heavy rain began on April 10.
Many residents could not access their homes because of roads washed away, while many others actually no longer have homes to return to.
While further aid packages are awaited from provincial and national government, KDM are trying to address roads and stormwater drains as a priority.
“During our assessments, it became clear that some communities are unable to access their homes and lack basic services such as water. Roads are badly damaged, which makes it difficult for water tankers to reach those affected,” said Civil Engineering and Human Settlements executive director, Muzi Sithole.
Municipal tractor loader backhoes (TLBs), excavators, tipper trucks, rollers and graders have all been freed up for the process, with extra machines hired as well.
Wards will be targeted in a cluster format, with the areas dictated by information already supplied by councillors.
If you have roads that need repairing, grading or resurfacing in your area as a result of the floods, contact your ward councillor to ensure it is on the schedule.
