Western Cape counts costs of devastating floods as disruptions continue

More than 16,000 people and 7,100 informal structures were impacted by the recent floods in the Western Cape, provincial authorities reported on Thursday.

Several people died in flood-related incidents, including four children electrocuted due to illegal power connections from main supply feeds in the Driftsands informal settlement. 

Many major roads including the N2 highway remain closed as officials continue to count the cost of the cut-off low weather system that left a trail of destruction through the south western Cape.

The cost to agriculture alone was around R1.4bn, according to the Western Cape agriculture department.  

City of Cape Town officials said about 30 people were still being accommodated in the Macassar hall.  

Residents from Storm Haven Retirement Village, who were evacuated on September 25, moved back to their homes by the evening,” the city said.

“Residents of Kay’s Caravan Park were evacuated to the Helpende Hand organisation for two days.” 

The city said 21 unauthorised people gained access to the Sir Lowry Pass community hall and have occupied the space as they had nowhere to go.  

Humanitarian agency partners, the South African Social Security Agency, the department of social development, NGOs and community-based organisations have helped with humanitarian relief. They provided meals, food parcels, blankets, and mattresses.  

Premier Alan Winde expressed his gratitude for all the help from residents in the province who have assisted those severely affected by the floods.  

“In the face of adversity, our nation has always shown its remarkable spirit of unity, resilience and compassion. Today we find ourselves called upon again to extend a helping hand, to be the shining beacon of hope for our fellow countrymen and women who have been deeply affected by the devastating floods and storms in the Western Cape. In times like these our collective strength shines the brightest, and together we can make a difference,” said Winde.  

The driver of the Golden Arrow Bus  that was overturned by forceful weather conditions on Monday has been suspended.  

Three passengers died in the fatal incident and 21 injured passengers were admitted to hospitals.   

A surviving passenger told EWN the accident could have been prevented as the driver had been warned to slow down.  

Golden Arrow Bus Service corporate affairs executive John Dammert told TimesLIVE Premium that police have opened a case of negligent and reckless driving and culpable homicide. 

The bus had been travelling from Mitchell’s Plain to Century City. 

"We have suspended the driver, and he will be subjected to our internal disciplinary process," said Dammert.