Mop-Up Operations Going On After Heavy Rains Cause Havoc In Kwazulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal is going through mop-up operations after heavy rains and strong winds hit the province, affecting districts such as eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude.

Last week's heavy rains claimed 11 lives - seven in uThongathi near Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa. The tragic event also injured more than 55 people and they are currently admitted to the hospital.

Due to the natural calamity, schools and power lines were damaged, resulting in power outages in eThekwini, the municipality suffered the most damage. The municipality is providing relief aid like food, blankets, mattresses, and building materials to displaced residents in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.

"eThekwini teams and volunteers are working together to clear debris in preparation for rebuilding. Water standpipes and water tankers have been provided to ensure an interim water supply. The restoration of electricity is also in progress," the municipality said, SA News reported.

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has sent community workers to help affected families. KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza and eThekwini Municipality Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda have checked on the progress of restoring basic services in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.

Khoza said social workers are providing relief and support, including helping with important documents and school uniforms for affected students.

"Partnerships with organizations like the Hollywood Foundation and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) ensured immediate aid, including meals and shelter in community halls," Khoza said.

She added, "The government pledged to construct proper homes for victims and increase disaster relief coordination efforts. Despite ongoing relief efforts, more aid is needed for affected areas like uThongathi, Osizweni, and Eshowe."

Aside from this, the officials are assessing the families who lost loved ones and building temporary homes for displaced families. Roads have been cleared of debris and fallen trees, and electricity has been restored in some areas.

A command center has been set up to help community members, and SASSA, along with the Department of Social Development, is giving out Social Relief of Distress grants. Help is being provided in the form of building materials, food, blankets, and mattresses is being given to residents of uMgababa, Ward 98, who were also affected by the heavy rains and strong winds.