The Cape of Storms lived up to its name this past week, bringing widespread flooding and damage across Cape Town , particularly affecting Vredehoek and several informal settlements.
Vredehoek Road Collapse Forces Closure
Following heavy downpours, a stormwater culvert in Van Riebeeck Park, Vredehoek, became blocked, causing flooding in the lower section of the park. As a result, a portion of the pavement along Homeleigh Avenue collapsed and now requires reconstruction.
Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas, confirmed that the road has been temporarily closed at the intersections of Capel Road and Gorge Road.
“An inspection was undertaken by the road depots to determine remedial works required. The road will be re-opened only once the safety of road users can be assured. Detours will remain in place for now,” Quintas said.
Ward 77 Councillor Francine Higham has urged residents to avoid the area for their safety.
Informal Settlements Hardest Hit
The City’s Disaster Risk Management (DRM) teams continue to assess damage in several informal settlements. Spokesperson Charlotte Powell said on Sunday, 6 July, that assessments were conducted in low-lying areas severely impacted by the rains.
- In Langa, at the Intersite and Sanitiser settlements, 67 dwellings were damaged, affecting 240 people.
- In Masicendani, 20 homes were affected, impacting 80 people.
- In Kampies, Strandfontein, 50 homes were affected, impacting 150 residents.
The City’s Informal Settlements Management branch has been activated to assist affected residents, while the National Department of Human Settlements is also conducting on-site evaluations.
“The City’s NGO partners will provide humanitarian relief, while the Roads and Infrastructure Management department has been requested to deliver sand and milling,” Powell added.
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
While the worst of the storm has passed, cold and damp conditions are expected to linger. The City’s Catchment, Stormwater and River Management branch is actively monitoring waterways, including rivers and canals.
Seven 24-hour donation drop-off sites have been made available for residents who wish to help:
- Constantia Fire Station
- Goodwood Fire Station
- Hout Bay Fire Station
- Lakeside Fire Station
- Roeland Street Fire Station
- Strand Fire Station
- Wynberg Fire Station
Residents can also arrange for collection by emailing Disaster.Donations@capetown.gov.za.
To report dangerous flooding or infrastructure emergencies, call the City’s 24-hour emergency number: 021 480 7700.
