Provincial Government to work with all spheres of government to repair damaged roads in floods stricken areas of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati
North West Premier, Prof. Tebogo Job Mokgoro said the information gathered following the inspection and assessment of the damaged roads and other infrastructure in the Greater Taung Local Municipality following heavy rainfall and floods, will be presented to the National Government to consider declaring the area the State of Disaster.
Premier Mokgoro, who was accompanied by MEC for Social Development, Boitumelo Moiloa, MEC Gaoage Molapisi of Public Works and Roads, Executive Mayor of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Boitumelo Mahlangu, as well as Administrator and senior managers in affected departments, visited the floods stricken areas of Matlapaneng, Mokgareng as well as Shaleng to get first-hand information of the situation on the ground.
Premier Mokgoro said despite the already dry provincial government purse, affected citizens and areas will have to be assisted.
“National, provincial and internal roads, including those which were under construction, have been affected. We will be meeting once more as three spheres of government to secure budget and restore damaged roads. There’s no doubt that funds are limited because most funds were directed towards tackling Covid-19 pandemic. However we will ensure that we rescue our people” remarked Premier Mokgoro.
Premier indicated that roads which were under construction will be restored as soon possible through the Department of Public Works and Roads.
“Through the available financial prescripts we will negotiate with constructors on site and readjust their scope of work to accommodate the restoration of the affected portions of the roads” added Premier Mokgoro.
A number of houses have been affected and houses built with mud collapsed. MEC for Social Development MEC Moiloa visited several households in Madipelesa and Mmamutle.
“Over 150 households need urgent assistance. We are still on the ground with our social workers doing assessment. Food parcels will be given to affected families. We are also providing blankets and mattresses to some through the assistance of different institutions” said MEC Moiloa.
Premier and entourage visited the bereaved family of Molebole in Mokgareng whose 9 year old child died after drowning in the flooded Mokgareng River.
Enquiries:
Bonolo Mohlakoana
Cell: 082 901 2435
E-mail: Bmohlakoana@nwpg.gov.za
