The widespread rainstorms that flooded parts of the Western Cape about a month ago, particularly took a toll on the Cederberg municipality with all the repair work that is now required for essential infrastructure.
This municipality suffered “extensive infrastructure damage” of approximately R309 million.
The standing committee on infrastructure recently undertook a parliamentary review visit to the area where the extent of the damage became clear.
Matlhodi Maseko, the DA’s spokesperson for infrastructure, says civil damage amounts to R56 million, while the damage to electrical infrastructure, agriculture and municipal roads is R6 million, R97 million and R150 million respectively.
“The damage to district, provincial and national roads, as well as more than 100 water and sewage pumps is still being calculated,” says Maseko.
“Meanwhile, the provincial government tries daily to help with the repair of the damaged infrastructure.”
Roads to and from Citrusdal were washed away, temporarily cutting off the town from municipal services, transport, exports and imports, neighboring farming communities and tourists.
“The R303 road has indeed been reopened, and the electricity supply to several towns has been secured, water supply has been restored, and relief and shelter have been provided to those who no longer have a place to go,” says Maseko.
The standing committee of infrastructure has meanwhile undertaken to also visit the neighboring Matzikama municipality to assess the flood damage there.
