Floods wreak havoc in Bramley
BRAMLEY VIEW – Residents and families affected by the heavy floods seek help.
Many families were left homeless following the torrential floods that wreaked havoc in some homes in Bramley View, alongside the Jukskei river on 9 November.
The unexpected flash floods caused damage in many parts of the province. Two homes, situated along the Jukskei’s riverbank in Bramley View were heavily affected by the floods.
Mother of three, Thoko Mofokeng said the past few days have been very challenging for her and her husband, who still don’t have a place to stay. “The floods have also damaged the walls of my house; I definitely have to get rid of some of my belongings,” she said.
Mofokeng said their house was flooded with water about two metres high and her children had to swim to get out of the house.
This is the second time Mofokeng’s house has been flooded. In 2014, the floods destroyed the wall at the back of her house.
Mofokeng believes the disaster could have been prevented, because in 2014, the council promised to put gabions along the riverbank to prevent water seeping into the home. Gabions are baskets filled with rocks or soil to prevent soil erosion.
“We need to know what is going to happen with the Jukskei because that is our main problem; if they can sort that issue out… it is sustainable for us to stay in this house,” she expressed.
Another resident and Mofokeng’s neighbour, Leboho Khoza shared the same sentiments and said, had the gabions been placed along the riverbanks, the disaster might not have been so bad.
Lombardy West and Bramley residents association member, Moses Selolo appealed to companies and residents to assist the families. “I would like to thank Gift of the Givers for coming out to help the affected families by providing food parcels and blankets,” he said.
City of Joburg Mayor Herman Mashaba said they are working tirelessly to reach out to those affected. “Property and infrastructure [have] also been damaged. I would also like to assure the public that the City is doing everything possible to assist communities and ensure that those affected are given emergency assistance,” he promised.
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