Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor Gary van Niekerk says he is satisfied with the progress made to electrify temporary houses in Walmer, Gqeberha, where flood affected families will be relocated.
This comes as the metro is accelerating its efforts to ensure that outstanding work is completed in order to bring normality to the lives of the affected residents.
Van Niekerk said that a total of 20 families will be accommodated in the newly built temporary shelters.
“We are happy to see work progressing well. And we updated our residents last week about the work that is underway and upcoming developments. Teams are on site electrifying the bungalows. [And] we are happy with the quality of the structures too.
Water connected, electricity to follow
“Water is already connected, and sanitation services will also be in place by the time the residents move in. We anticipate the electrification work will be completed later this month. Once that is done, the families will move in,” Van Niekerk said.
Last month, media reports said torrential rains claimed seven lives and displaced hundreds of people. This happened in the Kariega (Uitenhage) area following heavy rains in Nelson Mandela Bay. The floods destroyed houses, as more rain was expected.
Work progressing well
Van Niekerk said the municipality will continue to monitor progress in Walmer and the Kariega sites. These are places where residents from Lapland will be moved to.
He said the municipality will continue to update the residents on developments so that everyone is “on the same page and there is no confusion”.
“We are waiting for the greenlight from DEDEAT [Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism]. However, our teams are on standby. And as soon as that has been finalised, we are ready to clear the site. The construction work will then be able to commence.
“We wish to thank all stakeholders who are working with us. And also thank our residents for their patience with the work underway,” the mayor said.
- SAnews.gov.za
