“We experienced major theft of drain lids and dumping of refuse in the storm water system.”
THE DAWID Kruiper municipality’s disaster management team is still assessing the damage caused by recent flooding in the area.
Upington was hit the hardest after a downpour flooded the Pick * ’ Pay shopping complex as well as the Melkstroom and Morning Glory residential areas. The bridge close to the Kameel police station was also under water.
Residents watched as their vehicles and homes were flooded.
Residents blamed the Dawid Kruiper Municipality for failing to upgrade the inadequate and outdated drainage system, claiming that their complaints have fallen on deaf ears.
Spokesperson for the municipality, Patrick Williams, however, blamed the flooding on theft and illegal dumping.
According to Williams, the storm water system in the area is maintained regularly, in accordance with the municipality’s operational maintenance plan.
“However, we experienced major theft of drain lids and dumping of refuse in the storm water system.
“This added to blockages in the storm water system,” he said.
The Upington area has low ground conditions during a storm event, resulting in erosion and sediment ending up in the system. This also impacts on the system,” Williams added.
He said temporary shelter is being provided to residents affected by the flooding.
