Western Cape Local Government Seeks Provincial Disaster Classification After July Floods

The Western Cape Cabinet is seeking provincial disaster classification after the extensive flood damages that occurred from June 14-19, 2023. The request to the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) comes after assessing the aftermath, which revealed unfunded damages amounting to a staggering R703.3 million.

Consolidated Damage Report

Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, presented a consolidated damage report to the cabinet. Unfunded agricultural damages account for R500 million with concerns for the sector. The Department of Agriculture has reprioritized R18.6 million to assist the sector.

Devastating Effects on Rural Communities

Dr. Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, supports the decision to approach the national government after witnessing the floods’ devastating effects on rural communities. Orchards, vineyards, crops, irrigation systems, and fencing were severely damaged. Additionally, sediment removal and deposition in rivers and riparian zones caused extensive harm.

Unfunded Damages to Provincial Infrastructure

Unfunded damages to provincial infrastructure amount to R18.8 million. The Department of Infrastructure has reprioritized R4.6 million from its appropriated budget for the 2023/24 financial year to address immediate repairs to critical infrastructure. Minister Tertius Simmers emphasized the importance of requesting a provincial disaster declaration, as it would accelerate economic recovery and the restoration of infrastructure.

Unfunded Damages to Municipal Infrastructure

Unfunded damages to municipal infrastructure, after considering reprioritized budgets, are calculated to be R21.5 million. This figure includes damages in Overstrand, Theewaterskloof, Swartland, Cederberg, Drakenstein, Stellenbosch, and the City of Cape Town.

Forward-Looking Approach

Minister Bredell highlighted the need to acknowledge the heavy and widespread rain this winter that filled dams in the province while also recognizing the role of climate change in exacerbating the severity of floods and droughts. He stressed the importance of rebuilding with a forward-looking approach, ensuring that planning and design accommodate future environmental challenges.

Funding Support from National Government

The declaration of a provincial disaster by the NDMC would enable the Western Cape Government to seek funding support from the National Government, as the scope of the damages surpasses the province’s fiscal capacity.

Importance of Proactive Measures

The Western Cape’s efforts to recover from the floods showcase the importance of proactive measures and resource allocation in the face of increasing environmental challenges. By seeking a provincial disaster classification, the local government aims to ensure swift and effective recovery, not only for the environment but also for the communities impacted by the devastating floods.