Riverlands’ authorities monitoring fourth dam as rain persists

Authorities in Riverlands, outside Malmesbury in the Swartland, are monitoring a fourth dam amid concerns that it might burst its walls if rain continues in the area.

Humanitarian aid organisation, Gift of the Givers, is providing relief to communities affected by the flood.

The small rural town woke up to harrowing scenes early on Thursday morning. This after water from two farm dams above their homes came gushing.

Residents’ homes in Riverland and Chatsworth were severely affected.

Residents like Malvena Williams say they cannot wait to go back to their homes and rebuild their lives.

“My son could not even sleep last night after this happened. We had to sleep at my brother-in-law’s house. He was very traumatised and so are we. It’s the first time we had to go through something like this. It’s something that will stay with us for a long long time. My house was flooded, the structure is still standing but the water went through but I am one of the lucky ones I think.”

About 150 people are still being housed at a local church hall and the Thusong Community Centre.

Faith leader Moulana Arend-Goosan says “We want to thank Gift of the Givers who has provided us with great service providing food for us, blankets for us, they have been a great help. Gift of the Givers and the team working tremendously and tirelessly serving the community of Riverlands.”

Authorities say over 200 people were worst affected and that the cause of the dam collapse will be investigated.

West Coast District Municipality spokesperson, Hein Robertson says, “For now the immediate thing to do is to provide humanitarian relief. I can assure you that subsequent to human relief, there will be an investigation conducted by the Department of Water. That investigation will determine, one what the cause was of these dams and two, like you are asking could we have avoided this disaster here in Riverlands.”

Aid has been pouring in since Thursday but residents are without water and electricity. The disaster caused a power outage and water pipes were damaged.

Gift of the Givers spokesperson Ali Sablay says the immediate need for the community is water supply and that they continue to provide needed relief.

More rain is expected in the province and it is unclear when the residents will return home.

Riverlands Dam Collapse | Mopping up hampered by bad weather