Flash floods was an act of God
Infrastructure not sole cause of flood damage
With weather warnings and further forecasts of heavy rains and probable flash-floods in areas, motorists are urged to drive carefully and patiently.
The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) received numerous reports of collapsed or flooded bridges as a result of the recent heavy rainfall. According to them, the event that transpired was an act of God which was beyond the capacity of the JRA’s storm-water system .
Statistically, a road is designed for the likelihood of such a severe storm happening once in every five years. The surface of the road and reserve, including the storm-water servitude is designed to act as a channel should the underground system reach capacity. Major underground drainage systems crossing through residential properties are designed for storms expected to happen once every 25 years.
The managing director of the JRA, Dr Sean Phillips, said they have duly inspected recurring blockages in areas described as flood hot-spots and are monitoring low-level bridges which are prone to over-flowing during heavy downpours.
“I want to emphasise that maintenance to storm-water drains is being carried out by JRA on a regular basis. Repairs to damaged and blocked storm-water drains are also prioritised,” Phillips said.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport, Nhlanhla Makhuba, said that a storm-water master plan for Soweto has been completed and needs to be implemented. She also confirmed that a similar plan is being developed for the inner city.
Motorists are urged to obey road signs, traffic signals and road closures due to a flooded bridges or unsafe driving conditions. In the event of a flash-flood or where residents are at risk, the area need to be evacuated immediately, and residents should seek a place of safety.
All road- and storm-related emergencies should be reported to the JRA on 0860 562 874, by email to hotline@jra.org.za, on the JRA’s Twitter handle (@MyJRA).
