KNYSNA NEWS - The Garden Route Rebuild Initiative (GRRI), which aims to create a single point of contact for the rebuilding of the Garden Route, will only succeed if private partnerships are formed.
Earlier in August, GRRI representative Edward Lotz told the Knysna council in no uncertain terms that government does not possess the resources required for a task this daunting.
At a press briefing this week, on Tuesday 29 August, Dr Hildegarde Fast, chairperson of the initiative, emphasised that meetings and communications with those directly affected will start soon and updates will be given as they are received.
The initiative has the core theme, "How do we build back better?" and wants to include all affected parties, both private individuals and companies.
Asbestos
Of special interest to residents who have an "A" for asbestos sprayed on their properties, and who face sky-high quotes to dispose of the toxic debris, is that the reconstruction workgroup has applied for funding for the removal of the asbestos.
However, the director for disaster management in the Western Cape, Jacqueline Pandaram, pointed out at the briefing that no timeframe can be given as to if and when the funds may be released.
She explained this is the first time in the history of the country that they are attempting to access funding for this type of service. Those who do not wish to wait for the outcome of the request are advised to only use accredited contractors to remove asbestos if they wish to proceed with rebuilding.
The committee is accountable to MEC Alan Winde and the mayors.
Environment
The anti-erosion efforts of the environmental management workstream can be seen on the Brenton hills. Hydro-seeding teams are being put in place and the soil will be sprayed with a seed and fertiliser mixture, to stabilise the ground and promote growth.
Eden disaster manager Gerhard Otto said the so-called "widow makers" are priority. These are the dead, burnt trees lining the roads, which could come down at any moment. Residents will soon see teams removing these threats and chipping the debris.
Funding
The funding and resources workstream will report to the public on the situation regarding donations and the relief fund. Lotz said over half of the R46-million pledged had been given to Gift of the Givers and, of the funds pledged to the Knysna Relief Fund, he stated that the R2-million pledged by Absa is to be utilised for skills development.
He said additional capacity is required to deal with the many queries and a more effective communications channel must be instituted.
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