A number of Northern Cape roads have been damaged by flooding and heavy thunderstorms.
Image: Department of Roads and Public Works
A SPECIALIST team of engineers and technicians has been deployed to the Kamiesberg Municipality to assess several roads that were damaged during recent floods and heavy thunderstorms.
Department of Roads and Public Works spokesperson Zandisile Luphahla said that in the Namakwa District – particularly the Kamiesberg Municipality – key access roads in areas such as Kamasies (DR2951), Rooifontein (DR2951), Nourivier/Platbakkies (DR2944), Roodekloof (DR2944), and Rooiwal (OG110) had sustained significant damage.
"The bridge leading to Kamasies has been completely washed away, while blocked culverts are making access extremely difficult. Urgent intervention is required," said Luphahla.
Severely damaged roads in the Nama Khoi municipal area include:
Affected roads in the Hantam municipal area near Calvinia include:
Luphahla said that despite muddy and waterlogged conditions, teams were working tirelessly to transport materials, blade roads, and construct temporary detours.
"Some progress has been reversed due to continued rain, but recovery efforts are ongoing. The Northern Cape has experienced unusually high rainfall this season, which is a stark reminder of the growing impact of climate change and the increased frequency of extreme weather events like thunderstorms and flash floods."
He advised the public to avoid the Kanoneiland Bridge outside Upington, which was closed due to flooding caused by rising water levels in the Orange River.
"The road connecting the N14 and R359 is affected. Motorists are urged to use alternative routes via Keimoes and Upington until further notice."
A specialist team of engineers and technicians have been deployed to Kamiesberg Municipality to assess the road conditions.
Image: Department of Roads and Public Works
The MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong, said the community of Kamasies was currently isolated and unable to access essential services or reach the economic hub of Springbok.
"In response, we are constructing a bypass route from Kamasies to Rooifontein, adjacent to the original road. The public will be notified as soon as this route is safe for use,” said Makatong.
She convened an emergency meeting with the Namakwa District Municipality, Kamiesberg Local Municipality, disaster management teams, and the Namakwa Roads Forum on May 2 to implement immediate interventions. These include blading, spot re-gravelling, and the stabilisation of low-water crossings using culverts, cement slabs, and gabions.
“We are working closely with the district to compile a comprehensive damage report in support of declaring a disaster area. This declaration is vital to unlock the resources needed to expedite repairs and recovery.”
Makatong said the team of engineers would continue their assessments over the coming days.
"This work is essential to determine the scale of funding and technical support required. We are focused on finalising the disaster declaration report to unlock national and provincial aid.
“Looking to the future, the department is committed to building back better. This is not just about restoration, it’s about resilience. We will invest in sustainable, climate-smart infrastructure that can better withstand future shocks.”
She extended her appreciation to the people of Namakwa for their patience, resilience, and co-operation.
"The department urges community members to assist by reporting dangerous road conditions, including photos and GPS locations, via the Roads WhatsApp Line at 066 581 5626. Residents are also encouraged to remain cautious around heavy machinery," Makatong added.