FOR the past four years, 10 families say they have been forgotten after being relocated to temporary corrugated iron houses in Clairwood following the devastating 2019 floods.

The families were initially accommodated at a community hall in Umlazi’s Q Section after the disaster before being moved by the eThekwini Municipality’s Human Settlements Unit to the temporary structures near Dayal Road in Clairwood in 2021.

Also read: Renewed hope for KZN flood victims

The affected families said they were assured the relocation would be temporary and that they would soon be provided with permanent housing as an emergency intervention.

Instead, they said they remain trapped in cramped living conditions with no indication of when they will receive permanent homes.

A resident, Derrick Ndlovu, who has lived in the settlement since 2021, said the prolonged wait has left many families feeling abandoned.

“The corrugated iron houses are very small, making it difficult for families to carry out everyday activities. We were promised that we would only stay here for a short time while the municipality find us suitable housing,” he said.

The residents said they were shocked after seeing families displaced by the 2022 floods being relocated to permanent accommodation, including units at Montclair Lodge and Cornubia.

Another resident, Fikile Luthuli, said their lives have been left in limbo.

The group has repeatedly tried to secure a meeting with eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba, but without success.

Also read: eThekwini mayor visits flood-stricken areas in Clairwood

“We were given a number to call, but every time we phone, we are told he is unavailable and that we should try again later. It is frustrating because we are living in uncertainty and do not know when we will finally leave this place,” she said.

Residents also raised concerns about deteriorating sanitation facilities, describing conditions as unhygienic and unsafe.

Luthuli said the mobile toilets provided at the settlement have not been properly maintained and are often unusable.

“The toilets are rarely cleaned, forcing some residents to relieve themselves in nearby bushes. We also have sewage water flowing through the settlement, attracting flies and creating a terrible smell,” she said.

The families are now appealing to the municipality to provide them with permanent homes.

Attempts to get comment from eThekwini Municipality have been unsuccessful.

Media relations officer, Rhulani Baloyi, acknowledged receipt of the email and promised to respond within 24 hours.

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