Issued by the Ministry for Provincial and Local Government
15 FEBRUARY 2000
Minister FS Mufamadi, Minister for Provincial and Local Government, today declared a state of disaster in the area of jurisdiction of the Lowveld Escarpment District Council (as defined in Notice No. 6 of 22 July 1997), Mpumalanga, in terms of the Civil Protection Act, 1977, as amended, with effect from 11 February 2000.
Widespread rain and floods in the Mpumalanga Province since 9 February 2000 has caused extreme damage, particularly in the area of jurisdiction of the Lowveld Escarpment District Council. At least ten people have lost their lives and many others suffered injuries. Some communities have been completely cut off from the outside world due to the destruction of bridges and roads.
The following municipalities are affected: Nelspruit City Council, White River Local Council, Greater Malelane Local Council, Greater Komatipoort Local Council, Hazyview Local Council, Graskop Local Council, Sabie Local Council, and the following Transitional Representative Councils: Nkomazi East TRC, Nkomazi West TRC, White River/Nsikasi TRC and Pilgrims Rest TRC.
The greatest problem at this stage is the likely spread of diseases and epidemics due to damaged water works and other essential infrastructure.
The Provincial Disaster Management Committee of Mpumalanga is in charge of operations with the assistance of all role players such as the Department of Health, Traffic Control and Traffic Safety, the Department of Social Services and Population Development, the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport, the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, the SAPS and the SANDF. Other role players such as Telkom, Eskom and the Red Cross Society were coopted on the Committee.
Everything possible is being done to get the situation under control and to minimise suffering of the affected communities. The declaration of a state of disaster, however, empowers the disaster management organisations to perform their tasks effectively. Minister FS Mufamadi expressed his deepest sympathy and condolences to the victims of this unfortunate disaster and pleaded government's solidarity with all affected communities. he also extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone who is assisting and supporting the communities in the areas.
ENQUIRIES:
Mr PA Stopforth
Telephone: (012) 334-0709
Cell: 082-808-9878