Hotspot flooding area in Knysna to be attended to soon

Video

KNYSNA NEWS & VIDEOS - The management of the Bigai River crossing in Howard and Wilson Street has been a pressing concern for authorities, with flooding causing inconvenience and safety hazards for the community. Residents have been complaining about flooding on this crossing for a long time.

Today, it’s flooded and residents have been warned not to even attempt to drive on this part of the road. Cones have been put up to warm motorists not to drive through what has become a little river.

No major flooding has been reported in the Knysna area, but residents are urged to be careful on the roads.

MMP approval awaited

At a recent committee meeting, Municipal Manager Ombali Sebola provided an update on the efforts made to alleviate the flooding and maintain the storm water infrastructure.

However, challenges in obtaining necessary approvals and responses from service providers have hindered progress.

The submission of a Maintenance Management Plan (MMP) for the maintenance of storm water infrastructure to the Department of Environmental Affairs in July 2023 was a significant step towards resolving the flooding issues.

VIDEO: George Rex Drive in Knysna

The MMP identifies the specific roads and infrastructure that require clearance of accumulated vegetation, silt and debris, to facilitate the smooth flow of water through the system.

However, the approval for the MMP is still pending, causing a delay in implementing the measures.

In response to the immediate flooding concerns, an application for an emergency Nema Section 30A directive was approved.