After another deluge of rain flooded streets across KZN this past week, we asked our readers if the impact of flooding could be reduced on the North Coast.

Responses highlighted the need for improved drainage systems, stronger infrastructure, and better urban planning, along with community preparedness. One thing is clear – action is needed to better prepare for Mother Nature’s offerings.

Vee Moodley – When we repair infrastructure after flood damage, it needs to consider a more severe level of impact to counter future damage. A 1 in 200 year flood event should be the new standard. Secondly, trapping of debris before clogging drains and waterways. This includes litter boom technology but also zero waste approaches in communities, where waste pickers are paid and integrated into municipal services as waste service providers.

Ryan Meyer – Training and guiding to communities in high risk areas. Stakeholders appointed pre-flood on the ground for swift response to minimise loss of life.

Aatish Mannieram – Street sweepers have been using the manholes as a dustbin for years. The towns have only been swept clean from the top, the manholes cannot hold any more filth.

Tammy Colley – Storm waters need to be maintained and cleared, but in reality we also have so many more hard surfaces than before. So the run off will always be faster and create more damage.

Karen Louise Delport – Besides many other sound comments, STOP building in/on flood plains!

Thomas Nicolson – Stop calling Climate Change a hoax and say sorry to Greta (Thunberg).

Stephne Ashworth – Keeping the storm water drains clear of rubbish!

Quentin Power – Proper ducting of water runoff as well as regular maintenance/cleaning of drainage will assist and lessen the effects of a torrential downfall.

Sharon Wessels – Adding to Quentin’s list, good ground cover. Nature will always find the fastest lowest route.

Warren Loader – Keep litter out of sewers, storm water systems and river systems.

Brad Ingram – Simple maintenance of roads, bridges, and townships. If you don’t keep a major road clear of overgrowth then when there’s heavy rains, the road will flood. Be it a road through a residential neighbourhood or a national motorway. Maintain an estuary and the river mouth won’t be as likely to burst. Fix the potholes, cut the verges, it’s not rocket science guys.

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