Newcastle experienced extensive flooding in February 2023, with parts of the CBD and suburbs like Paradise having to be evacuated. A year later, with constant heavy rains a reality, has the Newcastle Municipality taken measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents?
Responding to questions put forward by Newcastillian News, the Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit explained that several steps had been taken to minimise the possibility of such extensive flooding from happening again.
Firstly, the Municipal Communication Unit noted, “The Newcastle Municipality is working with different stakeholders in Newcastle and has established a flood response group, which consists of SAPS Search and Rescue Team, Newcastle Disaster Management, Non-Government Organisations, Business Communities, and other local stakeholders. They all assist in monitoring the water levels when we receive notification from South African Weather Services of a potential flooding.”
In addition to monitoring water levels, the Newcastle Municipality has implemented a proactive programme to clean stormwater drains, mitigating the risk of future flooding caused by blocked drains. “The programme has been intensified, mostly in Newcastle West where flooding is more visible during heavy rain,” stated the Communications Unit.
While these measures aim to prevent future flooding, the Communications Unit highlighted the government entity’s readiness to respond if extensive flooding were to occur again.
“The Municipality will activate a Joint Operations Committee (JOC), which operates 24/7, where all stakeholders will meet and implement short-medium-long interventions on the spot,” stated the Communications Unit. Short-term interventions include providing temporary shelters, food, and sanitary packs to those affected by floods.
Moreover, in October 2023, Newcastillian News reported the Newcastle Municipality’s intention to construct a new dam. This initiative aims to enhance water security, however, another benefit would see large volumes of water flowing safely into the dam, preventing flooding in the town.
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Regarding the dam project’s progress, the Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit stated that dam construction falls under the core function of the Department of Water and Sanitation. Once plans are finalised, communication will be extended to the Municipality and the public.
As the Newcastle Municipality asserts its readiness to tackle potential flooding, community engagement is vital. Share your thoughts and views on these measures in the comment section below.
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Why does Ladysmith and Estcourt not have loadshedding?