Photo: RAJESH JANTILAL / AFP
KZN floods: Mchunu declares 2 May a provincial day of mourning
All citizens have been called to participate in KZN’s day of mourning.
Photo: RAJESH JANTILAL / AFP
The premier of KwaZulu Natal (KZN), Willies Mchunu, has declared Thursday, 2 May, a provincial day of mourning for those that lost their lives during the recent KZN floods.
As reported by SABC News, Mchunu confirmed that the official death toll has not changed from its previous total of 70.
He also revealed that the infrastructural damage in the affected areas of the province will cost the government an estimated R1.1-billion.
Read – Eastern Cape floods: Death toll rises to 10
KZN floods: Mchunu declares day of mourning
While it will take time for the restoration of eThekwini to take shape, Mchunu noted how important it is for the country to stand alongside the province as they remember those who have lost their lives in this period.
“We invite all citizens, interfaith formations and all sectors of society to participate in this day of prayer and mourning,” Mchunu stated.
With more than 1 400 people displaced due to the damage of at least 400 homes, relief efforts from the government and non-profit organisations like Gift of the Givers have been very helpful.
Read – Mozambique braces for violent floods after Cyclone Kenneth
Premier critical of water and sanitation protesters
The premier was very critical of the eThekwini Department of Water and Sanitation for choosing to protest at such an inopportune time.
This has affected water supply in the region and according to the premier, this is not only immoral, it is also counterproductive.
“Water is an essential service that cannot be used as a bargaining chip against the people. It is the view of the provincial government that this stride when our province is in such a disaster situation can be described in no other terms than that this is totally immoral,” he said.
Where will the mourning take place?
Human Settlements MEC, Ravi Pillay has been appointed head of a task team whose mandate is to enter into negotiations with the protesters.
According to Mchunu, the prayer session will commence at the Curries Foundation Sports Field in Greyville, Durban, from 9:00.
The premier confirmed that more information related to the event will be relayed closer to the day.
