By REGINALD KANYANE
4 May 2026- The Greater Taung Local Municipality mayor, Itumeleng Maribe said following heavy rains across many parts of the country, including Taung, a number of bridges have been submerged by water. Maribe said they wish to state that Taung is low-lying area compared to some neighbouring towns/areas.
“This situation makes Taung prone to flooding, which could spell danger for our citizens. We therefore would like to advise our citizens not to attempt crossing submerged bridges as well as running rivers.
“We encourage them to cooperate with law enforcement agencies who have been on the ground since the beginning of the heavy rains. We are aware that a number of our internal roads will be accessible due to erosion,” he said.
Maribe further said they are also mindful of the fact that some mud houses will have been affected. He added that, they are in contact with relevant responsible departments as well as the district municipality in the spirit of IGR to ensure that they assist affected communities.
“We will also be intensifying our blading efforts within limited resources that we have,” said Maribe.
Residents in Mokgareng were stuck after the bridge on R57 road was submerged. Other areas such as Tamasikwa, Takaneng, Madipelesa and Vaaltyn were also affected.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said they have collaborated with the district disaster management team. Motsumi said the road between Reivilo and Taung is closed, and Taung – Vryburg was temporarily closed.
“We have learners at weekend camps in Taung and are trapped at the camps. There are alternative routes, though distance is challenging.
“In the majority of schools, learners will be trapped between home and schools because of the damaged bridges in the villages. We anticipate low attendance in the majority on Monday,” she said.
Motsumi further said they commemorated with principals not to force matters where it is risky. She added that a recovery plan will be put in place.
“Learners at the incubation camps be kept in those host schools until the waters have subsided and when closed roads are opened. Extension of those camps for the safety of learners,” said Motsumi.
The Guardian 