It’s been three months since Krugersdorp experienced the unprecedented flooding on New Year’s Day and at the SAVF Môreglans home for the elderly there are still many unanswered questions.
Môreglans manager San-Mari Ferreira explained that the heavy rains of 1 January caused the Monument Dam to overflow, depositing the excess water into the High School Monument grounds, ultimately flowing into the Môreglans, premises which borders some of the school’s netball courts.
The boundary walls and electrical fencing between the two properties were knocked down and left in ruins. The costs involved in repairing this fence became Môreglans’ responsibility.
Also read: Krugersdorp storm: The damage left behind
San-Mari reportedly sent a letter to the Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) mayor, Cllr Francis Makgatho, explaining that, “The storm water flowed from the road above the school onto the main sports field into the Môreglans property. The right-hand house on our premises on the north-western border was flooded. The water level in the garden was very high.
“If the dam is compromised, the water will probably move in the direction of Môreglans. The two cottages are going to be right in the path of the water. It might destroy these two cottages, taking into consideration the gallons of water that will pass through.”
Môreglans is not as concerned about the New Year’s Day flood as they are with the one that might follow. They’re currently questioning the stability and safety of the Monument Dam, and what dangers it may pose to the surrounding buildings and homes.
“We require the assurance from the City Council that the maintenance and the management of the dam are up to date and done to reduce risk. This is a serious issue and must be addressed immediately,” San-Mari added.
The News made an enquiry to the MCLM on this issue seven days before writing this article and is still awaiting a response, which will be published once received.
