Residents in low-lying settlements of Bloemfontein’s township fear the worst is yet to come after their yards and houses were flooded by a rain storm on Friday (13/01).
The much-needed summer rain swept through Bloemfontein, affecting many in low-lying areas.
Some were left counting the costs due to damage to their valuables, such as televisions.
The casualties were the poor – bearing the brunt of bad planning and negligence to maintain infrastructure, including houses.
Roads were flooded due to blocked storm-water drains.
Residents and motorists in Bochabela and Turflaagte were seen fighting to stop surging water from going into their houses. Some returned from work to discover their yards resembled islands, their houses flooded. Furniture, clothes and blankets were soaked in water.
Granny Anna Malangabe, who resides at 4144 Molatedi Street in Bochabela, is one of the flood’s casualties.
She was unable to leave her house, as her yard resembled a dam.Her house was surrounded by water and the wall, approximately one meter high built as a security mechanism apparently aggravates her situation.
Because she needs crutches to walk, she finds it extremely difficult to use the outside toiletwhich is outside with her house underwater.
Malangabe, who lives with her daughter, Kate Malangabe, and three grandchildren, said her house floods whenever it rains. She appealed for some intervention to address her challenge.
Many tenants living in the same neighbourhood as granny Malangabe also failed to escape the devastating effects of the rain.
Returning from work, they discovered their valuables, identity documents and qualifications, furniture, clothes and blankets were soaked.
The water reportedly came in under the doors and through the leaking roofs.
Streets that were already in a hazardous condition were a no-go zone for motorists who feared getting stuck in the mud. Residents were seen negotiating their way through muddy streets on foot.
