The Kuils River, a key tributary to the Eerste River, spans approximately 30km and traverses several areas including Kuils River, Mfuleni, Khayelitsha and Sandvlei before merging with the Eerste River.
In response to recurring flooding issues, the City has initiated targeted maintenance work along a 1.2km stretch of the Khayelitsha Wetland, from the N2 to Spine Road in Kuils River.
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This maintenance project, commenced in March and set for completion by the end of April 2024, aims to address the challenges posed by heavy rainfall that have adversely affected communities like Qandu Qandu Informal Settlement, BM Section and Greenpoint.
The current phase of work involves dredging the river to remove silt and deepen its bed, alongside the construction of sand berms along its banks.
The investment of R450 000 in this phase builds upon previous efforts undertaken during the 2021/2022 financial year.
Councillor Zahid Badroodien, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, emphasised the broader significance of this initiative. Beyond immediate flood prevention, the project supports future development in the area.
By prioritising these measures, the City aims to minimise the impact of flooding on local communities and facilitate sustainable development in the Kuils River and Khayelitsha Wetland areas.