Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbite in English by Freddy Sonakile
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has urgently written to the South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd. (SANRAL) requesting immediate intervention to address the recurring flooding on the N12 near Stilfontein. (See letter here.) With every rainfall, this section of road becomes hazardous, leading to accidents and endangering motorists.
We have also called on the North West Department of Public Works and Roads to collaborate with the City of Matlosana Municipality and the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) to develop a long-term solution to Matlosana’s widespread flooding crisis. (See letter here.)
The core issue is the city’s failing stormwater drainage infrastructure, which requires an urgent audit and a coordinated response to ensure proper drainage and prevent further flooding. (See pictures here, here, here and here.)
The municipality’s current approach, placing warning signs, does little to protect motorists, especially at night. Short-term fixes like drainage pits on the side of the road have failed, and a permanent, engineered solution is necessary to safeguard both residents and infrastructure.
Furthermore, the City of Matlosana Municipality must take a proactive role in educating the public on the dangers of blocking drainage systems. Both individuals and businesses who contribute to clogged stormwater drains worsen flooding risks.
A robust public awareness campaign, combined with strict enforcement of existing by-laws or the development of new regulations, must be implemented to hold offenders accountable.
The DA will continue applying pressure on all responsible entities to ensure swift action is taken before more lives and livelihoods are put at risk.