Limpopo floods wreak havoc on infrastructure | Review

LIMPOPO – The heavy rain that has fallen across Limpopo since last week has caused significant damage, leaving billions of rands in destruction to bridges, roads, and infrastructure. Many of the region’s dams and rivers are overflowing, exacerbating the situation.

Motorists are urged to drive with extreme caution as parts of the roads have been severely damaged by the heavy downpours. In some areas, the flooding has caused road closures and dangerous conditions.

Due to the collapse of a bridge, learners from Magona and Mashobye in the Collins Chabane municipal area were forced to stay home last week. Some learners, however, crossed the still-flooding rivers on foot. Many parents accompanied their children across the rivers, fearing the strong current might sweep them away.

@polokwanereview Both the Sand and Limpopo rivers are flowing at 100% following recent rains in the province! Watch here! #Limpopo #LimpopoRiver #SandRiver #ReviewOnline ♬ original sound – plkreview

Chief Andrew Xumalo has called on the government to construct a proper bridge and upgrade the area’s rainwater drainage system. “We’ve told the municipality that the real problem is the lack of a proper bridge. We don’t sleep at night when it rains like this. We need help. They should build a proper road,” he said. “I didn’t go to work because the entrance to my gate was swept away, and the water caused erosion that needs to be filled.”

Emmanuel Mongwe, spokesperson for the Department of Public Works, Roads, and Infrastructure, confirmed that the department is aware of the damage caused by the recent rains. This has led to the province being declared a disaster area.

“Some of the hardest-hit areas are in Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe, and many others across the province,” he said.

“We urge road users to be cautious while travelling, as we continue assessing the damage and preparing for clean-up operations to repair the affected areas.”