Mpumalanga Cooperative Governance warns communities against water flooded rivers and bridges
MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) in Mpumalanga, Hon. Simon Skhosana has warned communities to avoid flooded rivers, dams, water streams and bridges. The persistent rains have caused the water levels in the rivers, dams and water streams to rise. In Nkomazi, several bridges are sub-merged, making it dangerous to cross them.
In the light of the rising levels of water, Mr Skhosana warned communities about the dangers of crossing bridges, rivers and dams. “The information gathered by our Disaster Management teams dispatched on the ground indicates that rivers and dams are over-flowing. Bridges connecting villages are submerged. We call upon our people not to take risks by crossing them,” Mr Skhosana warned.
More rain is predicted for the weekend and the levels of water may rise. Mr Skhosana has appealed to the municipalities to activate their Joint Operation Centres (JOCs) to coordinate disaster management activities for the safety communities. Facilities, such as community halls, church buildings and schools have been identified as part of an evacuation plan.
Although villages in the Nkomazi Municipality are the hardest hit, however, Mr Skhosana has appealed to communities elsewhere in Mpumalanga to be on high alert. He further appealed to road users to drive carefully as roads are slippery. “The rain has caused damage to our roads. This has resulted in the closure of some of the roads. On the N4, between Barberton and Kaapmuiden, rocks are falling into the road. The road between Komatipoort and Mananga has now been cleared after a temporary closure. We appeal to road users to be caution when using all the roads due to the bad weather conditions,” said Mr Skhosana.
The supply of water to some villages in Nkomazi may be interrupted due to the flow of water into the water pumps. “We appeal to our communities to be patient as the problem is being attended to by our technicians,” Mr Skhosana said.
Communities are urged to call the following Disaster toll free number for emergencies: 0800 202 507
Enquiries:
George Mthethwa
Cell: 083 302 2774
