While the recent bouts of rainfall in Cape Town are warmly welcomed in our water-scarce region, flooding and ponding of roads, public open spaces and even homes during these periods of wet weather remain a leading cause of frustration.
To ensure efficient responses from relevant maintenance teams, it is important that residents are informed on how to report instances of flooding caused by blockages in the stormwater system.
Also read: WC disaster management teams on standby in anticipation of heavy rain
Necessary contact details:
The most efficient way to log complains about road infrastructure (including stormwater system blockages) is to contact the Transport Information Centre (TIC).
- Call 0800 65 64 63
- Email [email protected]
To report emergencies and to get help when in danger, contact the disaster management team.
- Call 021 480 7700 from a cellphone.
- Call 107 from a landline.
A tracking reference number will be provided and the request will be redirected to the appropriate department for action.
City of Cape Town reminds residents that in cases of extreme rainfall, the stormwater systems and/or canals may not have the necessary capacity to drain away the amount of rainwater that has fallen.
More commonly, however, the cause of stormwater flooding remains blockages in the system created by illegal dumping.
Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management Grant Twigg says the city spends approximately R300 million annually on clearing up dumped waste and littering.
In addition to reporting stormwater flooding and road infrastructure problems, residents are urged to alert the Urban Mobility Directorate’s Roads and Infrastructure Management teams of any signs of illegal dumping.
‘Stormwater systems are designed for exactly that, stormwater. Blockages caused by litter, refuse, building material and other inappropriate materials will cause flooding and untold misery for those affected by flooding,’ says City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Councillor Rob Quintas.
‘Dumping materials into the stormwater system and canals is illegal and residents are encouraged to report any incidents they witness.’
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Picture: Natallia Sorenkova / Unsplash