KwaZulu-Natal: Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has conveyed his condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the recent flooding caused by heavy rains in the province. In a bid to support the affected communities, the Premier visited the flood-stricken areas of Inanda and Lamontville to provide assistance and evaluate the damage inflicted by the severe weather conditions.
According to South African Government News Agency, Ntuli expressed his concerns regarding the destruction caused by the heavy rains, which led to widespread displacement and damage to critical infrastructure. The provincial government is actively collaborating with disaster management teams and various stakeholders to deliver immediate relief, including emergency shelter, food supplies, and medical assistance to those impacted by the floods.
During his visits, Ntuli reaffirmed the government's commitment to mobilizing resources for recovery and rebuilding efforts. He emphasized the importance of residents heeding weather warnings and taking necessary precautions for their safety. The Premier also checked on the wellbeing and accommodation needs of 41 flood-affected families at Bayside in Durban central, underscoring the government's dedication to providing aid and long-term support to the hardest-hit communities.
Ntuli reassured residents of the government's steadfast mission to restore stability and rebuild affected areas. He urged caution among residents, advising them against crossing flooded roads, bridges, or rivers and highlighting the unpredictability of water's power during heavy rains. The Premier stressed the importance of prioritizing safety and delaying travel until conditions improve.
He also called on communities to follow warnings from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), and municipalities, emphasizing the critical role these warnings play in safeguarding lives and property. Ntuli warned against complacency in the face of severe weather, urging residents to take warnings seriously and act responsibly.
The flooding resulted in the loss of over 20 lives across the province, with the SAWS issuing an orange level 6 weather warning for parts of KwaZulu-Natal. In the aftermath, Premier Ntuli commended eThekwini Municipality for its efforts in maintaining drainage systems, though he acknowledged the need for significant improvements in some areas to ensure efficient water flow. Ntuli announced plans for an urgent meeting between the provincial government and municipalities to address infrastructure maintenance, highlighting the necessity for investment in infrastructure suited to the region's weather conditions.