Shiyabazali community faces devastation after severe flooding

The community of Shiyabazali in New Hanover is coming to terms with the loss and devastation that Sunday's heavy rainfall and the subsequent flooding inflicted upon them.

The disaster has left many families destitute and homeless.

This situation has prompted an urgent reaction from both local leaders and the provincial government, under the guidance of MEC of Transport and Human Settlement, Siboniso Duma.

Among those affected in the community was Siyanda Zakwe.

She spoke to the Daily News about her extreme weather experience and how she narrowly escaped when rising water from the Injasotho River surged towards her home.

“When I realised the pace at which the water flowed in the direction of my home, I immediately escaped through a window,” she explained.

Zakwe suffered minor injuries to her lower body as she attempted to escape. She appealed to authorities for assistance in recovering her identity documents, medical records, and bank cards.

“I would appreciate help to replace what I’ve lost, as well as clothes to wear to work tomorrow. I have only my pyjamas left.”

Another resident, Nobuhle Mchunu, echoed the desperation felt throughout the community. She said that her house had been swept away by the floodwaters, leaving her with nothing but the clothes she wore.

“As things stand, I have nothing to my name. I slept at a friend’s house yesterday, and today, I don’t know where I am going to sleep,” she said.

Ward 2's councillor, Skhumbuzo Nxumalo, reported that the municipality had arranged alternative accommodation for the homeless.

However, many residents opted to stay with family and friends and were reluctant to share space with foreign nationals in the hall set up at St Joseph School.

“Some refused because they believe that being in the same space as foreign nationals would disadvantage them when the relocation process begins,” Nxumalo noted.

The councillor explained that the municipality had long cautioned residents against building near the banks of the local river due to the inherent dangers.

He said that plans were underway to relocate residents to a newly developed area where a housing project was currently being completed.

“We are verifying those who qualify and have applied for houses. We will prioritise South African residents in this process,” he assured.

MEC Duma highlighted the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of displaced families, who were being verified. “We will accommodate people in the halls and schools,” he said.

Rescue teams remain on high alert as they continue with search efforts, having recovered the body of one of the missing persons on Monday morning.

Ndabezinhle Sibiya, spokesperson for the local Department of Human Settlements, reported that the community was in urgent need of support.

Many residents are isolated due to washed-away roads and bridges.

As the rescue and recovery efforts unfold, the department has prioritised short-term housing solutions for those without shelter. Many residents are feeling the urgent strain of displacement.

“Our dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) is tirelessly working to ensure safety on all major routes affected. We request collaboration from stakeholders in the freight industry to manage truck movement effectively in this region."

Duma expressed his condolences to the families affected by the flooding, promising continued updates as the situation develops.

With major highways like the N3 and N2 serving as crucial logistics routes for Durban, plans are underway to assist in escorting trucks and vehicles to alleviate congestion.

DAILY NEWS