The flooded road in Papkuilsfontein has been called a ‘challenge’ by Umtshezi Municipal Manager Nonhlanhla Njoko who said that self-draining roads and storm water management is a “serious issue, which is distressing the community living in and around Papkuilsfontein”.
Ms Njoko was responding to the article in last week’s paper, which showed a road in this residential area that becomes a mini swimming pool after moderate or heavy rainfall.

The road becomes inaccessible to passing motorists and pedestrians too have to brave the very long verges on the sidewalk to pass by.
In her response, Ms Njoko explained that there is an urgent need for a comprehensive analysis that will result in storm water management and a drainage system throughout Papkuilsfontein.

“The terrain and slope of the area needs a well-engineered and well-structured water management system. We currently undertake regular management and will have to set aside a budget to correct this during the next outer years of the current MTEF period,” commented Ms Njoko.

Although the municipality claims to “undertake regular management” in Papkuilsfontein, none of this has been seen since last year.