The Joint Operations Committee (JOC) of Limpopo continues its work of rescuing and providing relief to distressed people. This was as a result of the heavy rains that have wreaked havoc in most parts of the Mopani and Vhembe Districts of Limpopo province, leaving a number of people homeless and roads damaged.
The Team led by MEC for Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) Clifford Motsepe distributed 240 food parcels, 20 additional tents, 275 blankets in Vhembe. It’s reported that six people died in Vhembe District. Meanwhile in Mopani District four died, ninety-five (95) people were rescued in Kruger National Park.
The Department of CoGHSTA has today made available additional 200 food parcels to Vhembe District. MEC Clifford Motsepe has called on all people to be vigilant at all times and have emergency numbers handy.
Key messages:
- Residents living next to rivers and streams must evacuate to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises.
- When you cross a flowing river where water reaches above your ankles, turn back and use alternative routes.
- Never try to walk, swim or drive in swift – flowing water. It can sweep you off your feet.
- Do not drive over a low-water bridge if the water is flowing strong across it.
- Educate your children not to swim in rivers, streams and ponds in open areas.
- Do not drive during a severe storm – park away from electrical lines, trees, streams and rivers.
- Have emergency number at hand 0800 222 111
Disaster Management is everybody’s business. In case of any Disaster, members of the public should report incidents to their district offices or Provincial Disaster Management Centre on the toll free number 0800 222 111.
For missing persons during disaster, members of the public should report the incident to their nearest police stations.
For more information please contact:
Ms. Dieketseng Diale
Tel: 015 284 5582
Cell: 083 652 5276
E-mail: mediaenquiry@coghsta.limpopo.gov.za
