[WATCH]: The Damage from Tshwane’s Overnight Flooding

Multiple reports of flooding came through after heavy rains experienced throughout Pretoria over the weekend. Affected areas included Waverly and Centurion. Although, one of the most flood damaged sectors in Tshwane was Eerste Fabriek, where as many as 60 residents found themselves trapped on the rooftops.

Eerste Fabriek Residents Refuse Help

Eerste Fabriek is an informal settlement situated along the banks of a river that flows through Mamelodi. And has become notorious for flooding. After the December 2019 floods destroyed over 700 shacks. 

This time around, many shacks became completely submerged. Trapping residents on the roofs. However, those trapped refused evacuation by the South African Police Services helicopter. And then would also not accept assistance from the Tshwane EMS divers sent to save them. It became clear that these residents would not accept help.

Tshwane Officials Response to the Flood

In response to the flood Tshwane’s Emergency Medical Services spokesperson, Charles Mabaso, said the city had activated the Tshwane disaster centre at level three. And since the early hours of Saturday morning, Tshwane’s EMS department was all over the city attempting to aid and rescue residents where they could. Including the Tshwane mayoral committee member for human settlements, Abel Tau and social development mayoral committee member Peggy de Bruin. Who were also on the ground and engaging with the community, offering services where needed. The city has offered both social relief and temporary accommodation to those affected. 

In one instance, the fire and emergency management services in the City of Ekurhuleni successfully rescued four people trapped in a flooded vehicle in the Olifantsfontein industrial area.