Minister Pamela Majodina visited Bloemhof Dam on Friday 11 April to assess infrastructure after heavy water inflows and high releases caused significant downstream flooding.
She reviewed the situation amid growing concerns about the impact on nearby communities.
Government’s Position on Flood Damage
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Minister of Water and Sanitation Pamela Majodina made it clear that the government would not take responsibility for any property damage sustained by residents who have built structures too close to the water.
Majodina addressed the concerns of local communities, emphasising that they had encroached upon the floodline.
She stated, “The communities that are complaining have encroached the floodline, and no government will take responsibility for their property loss.”
Warning to Residents
The Minister warned affected communities that the affected communities needed to relocate to avoid further danger.
“In fact, I want to come and tell them without mixing my words that they must move away from the floodline because they are going to be washed away by this water,” Majodina added.
The visit comes as the department issues warnings about possible flooding due to rising water levels at the dam.
Water and Sanitation Department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa told Mail&Guardian that the Vaal Dam’s water levels have reached 112.85%, with inflows of 1,248.11mᵌ/s from the upper catchment.
“The five sluice gates remain open with a discharge remains of 793mᵌ/s to manage the water levels at the dam.”
She said the controlled water releases at both the dams may lead to “possible overtopping” of riverbanks downstream.
This would affect infrastructure built in lower-lying areas within the one-in-100-year floodline.
Do you think the government should help relocate communities living near floodlines before disaster strikes?
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