Picture: The climate change continues to affect livelihoods/Google

KEAMOGETSWE THOMAS

In the vast and arid landscapes of South Africa’s Northern Cape Province, the climate has long been a defining factor in the lives of its residents and the region’s economic activities. Changing weather patterns and extreme events connected to climate change make crucial infrastructure like roads, buildings, energy grids, and water systems more at risk.

The Namakwa District, known for its beautiful scenery, recently faced a severe flood. This, according to climate experts, highlights the pressing need to adopt infrastructure that can withstand climate challenges.

After the flood in the Namakwa District, speaking to Rural Action for Climate Resilience(RACR) Professor Dallip Das from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s engineering department and planning sheds light on the connection between climate change and the area’s infrastructure vulnerabilities After a significant flood in the Namakwa District.

Das emphasizes the shifting weather patterns, including increased rainfall, rising temperatures, and intensified storms, which have led to more frequent extreme events.

“Sudden heavy downpours, referred to as cloudbursts, and flash floods have become common, exposing roads, homes, and critical systems to heightened risks. Despite advanced technology, the unpredictability of these events remains a challenge, making planning and response complex,” he told RACR.

According to Dr Andries Kruger, Chief Scientist from the South African Weather Service, the Namakwa District isn’t usually flood-prone, but is more susceptible to droughts or extended dry periods. However, due to irregular rainfall, floods can occur in unusually wet seasons, like the current one.

Kruger also points out long-term climate projections indicating a drier climate in the region. “Over the past 30 years and even earlier, rainfall trends in the far west of the country show a decline,” he said, adding “Yet, it’s not possible to conclude that floods will become less likely from available data. Recent studies reveal that even in parts of South Africa experiencing less rainfall, heavy daily downpours haven’t decreased.”

Urgent Action Agenda: Adapting to Climate Challenges

The implementation gap poses a significant challenge, requiring concerted efforts to transform plans into action. Identifying vulnerable regions, infrastructure, and communities remains imperative.

In developing resilient infrastructure, a dual approach involving prevention and restoration must be adopted. Preventive measures focus on constructing robust infrastructure capable of enduring extreme events, while restoration strategies aim to rejuvenate damaged infrastructure with resilience at the forefront.

In the face of increasing climate uncertainties and extreme events, the paradigm of infrastructure development is evolving from reactive measures to proactive, resilient solutions. Central to this transformation is a resolute focus on prioritizing both resilience and sustainability. 

This shift entails not only meticulous planning, design, construction, and maintenance but also active engagement with local communities, tapping into their invaluable insights and experiences to navigate the unpredictability of a changing climate. 

Recent incidents, like the impactful flood event, underscore the imperative of a comprehensive approach, considering spatial, engineering, socio-economic, and environmental factors in infrastructure development. 

Lessons drawn from these events advocate for the construction of robust roads and other structures using durable materials capable of withstanding nature’s formidable forces.

The urgent call to action is clear. Across regions, infrastructure, and communities, vulnerability is stark. Professor. Das advises, South Africa must strengthen existing structures and restore those damaged. This could mean constructing escape routes or using resilient materials. But this isn’t just physical—it’s about reshaping mindsets. Stakeholders need skills to navigate disasters, while local wisdom boosts adaptability.

Crucially, collaboration is key—uniting governments, organizations, and individuals. 

Note: (This article was produced through the Youth Citizen Journalism Fellowship, an initiative of the Rural Action for Climate Resilience project, which is co-funded by the European Union and the Heinrich Boll Foundation)