Despite disaster warnings, Juskei River shack dwellers rebuild homes

Last week’s risky heavy rains that washed away shacks along the Juskei River in Alexandra did little to deter shack dwellers from rebuilding near the river again.

SHACK DWELLERS ADJACENT TO THE JUSKEI RIVER ENDURE FLOODS

Stjwetla informal settlement, situated on the banks of the Juskei River, was a victim of heavy pours which lasted for about 45 minutes, flooding the settlement and destroying informal homes.

ALSO READ: SEE: Storm wreaks havoc in parts of Gauteng

“The flooded Jukskei River flowing through Alexandra reached unprecedented levels with the arrival of a Highveld storm that has, this season, missed that particular catchment area until now,” reported Mark Mcclue of Action for Responsible Management of Our Rivers (ARMOUR) from Alexandra in Gauteng.

“The results are as predicted, due to the storm water run-off. Thankfully, at this stage, the damage was material and not loss of life.”

Mcclue

ALSO READ: WARNING: Safe driving behaviour advised for motorists in wet weather conditions

WHY THE ALEXANDRA INFORMAL DWELLERS WENT AHEAD AND REBUILT STRUCTURES

Despite warnings to avoid rebuilding near the river, the residents of Stjwetla informal settlement started rebuilding immediately after the storm cleared. Shacks have mushroomed once again, most defying orders because they have nowhere to go nor alternative shelter provided in the interim.

EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS FOR ALL REGIONS

In the event of flash floods or where residents are at risk, the City of Joburg said it is advisable to immediately evacuate the area and seek a place of safety. Residents and road users are encouraged to report all road and stormwater-related emergencies to the standby teams.

• Region A: Midrand, Ivory Park, Diepsloot, Fourways – 060 960 0764
• Region B: Rosebank, Northcliff, Newlands, Mellville, Emmarantia – 082 556 1307
• Region C: Northgate, Roodepoort, Bram Fischerville, Florida – 082 555 2316
• Region D: Greater Soweto areas – 060 960 0779
• Region E: Sandton, Alexandra, Houghton, Wynberg – 083 499 7939/ 060 9600 760
• Region F: Inner City, Hillbrow, Johannesburg South – 060 960 0763
• Region G: Eldorado Park, Ennerdale, Lenasia, Orange Farm – 060 960 0771
• Motorways: Johannesburg – 060 983 8065

ALSO READ: Midrand hailstorm: Helpful contact details in case of emergency

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