Eastern Cape Floods: Ramaphosa links it to Climate Change; Death Toll Rises to 86

(The Post News)- President Cyril Ramaphosa visited flood-affected areas in the Eastern Cape following rising casualties and damage to infrastructure caused by the severe weather in the OR Tambo and Amathole District Municipalities earlier this week.

The president was accompanied by Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa and Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, were they emphasised their commitment addressing the severity of the issue of climate change.

“So far, our two provinces, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, are now prone to continuous annual natural disasters that are causing a lot of pain and suffering among our people, ”he stated.

Ramaphosa expressed his sadness at the loss of almost 80 lives and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, affected communities and Eastern Cape residents at large. The delegation monitored the progress on the response and interacted with affected communities on government’s support.

However, Ramaphosa applauded emergency teams for their rapid response and thanked forensic teams for their dedication when identifying the deceased.

“I’m hugely impressed with the way that various departments at national, provincial, and local government level have responded to this disaster,” Ramaphosa.

He said that the disaster is catastrophic where the floods went beyond the banks of the river, adding that the roads were swept and various houses were damaged leading to the death of over 78 people killed.

Young school children among 13 missing pupils, lost their lives after after their transport was swept away by torrents when the driver attempted to cross a flooded bridge. It is reported that search and rescue operations are ongoing in different parts of the province as some people are reported missing.

Ramaphosa confirmed government’s plans to rebuild homes of the victims, restore infrastructure, and also adviced people to avoid building homes in flood-prone areas.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has comfirmed that the death toll has risen to 86 with more than 1000 people displaced.

“Please continue to assist where you are called on as this makes it appear to people that government is lending a hand in their hour of need,”Mchunu said.