By REGINALD KANYANE
5 May 2025- The Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong said the province has experienced unusually high rainfall this season, which is a stark reminder of the growing impact of climate change and the increased frequency of extreme weather events like thunderstorms and flash floods. Makatong said the Namakwa District, particularly the Kamiesberg Municipality, has been severely affected.
She further said key access roads in areas such as Kamasies (DR2951), Rooifontein (DR2951), Nourivier/Platbakkies (DR2944), Roodekloof (DR2944), and Rooiwal (OG110), have sustained significant damage. Makatong added that the bridge leading to Kamasies has been completely washed away, while blocked culverts are making access extremely difficult.
“Urgent intervention is required. The department is concerned about the community of Kamasies, which is currently isolated and unable to access essential services or reach the economic hub of Springbok.
“In response, we are constructing a bypass route from Kamasies to Rooifontein, adjacent to the original road. The public will be notified as soon as this route is safe for use. To address this unfolding situation, we have convened an emergency meeting with the Namakwa District Municipality, Kamiesberg Local Municipality, Disaster Management teams, and the Namakwa Roads Forum,” she said.
Makatong said the outcome was a firm commitment to collaborative action. She said immediate interventions include blading, spot re-gravelling and stabilisation of low-water crossings using culverts, cement slabs and gabions.
“We are working closely with the district to compile a comprehensive damage report in support of declaring a disaster area. This declaration is vital to unlock the resources needed to expedite repairs and recovery.
“A specialised team of engineers and technicians has been deployed to conduct thorough damage assessments. Despite muddy and waterlogged conditions, teams are working tirelessly, transporting materials, blading roads and constructing temporary detours,” said Makatong.
She said some progress has been reversed due to continued rain, but recovery efforts are ongoing. Makatong said their engineers will continue their assessments in the coming days.
“This work is essential to determining the scale of funding and technical support required. We are focused on finalising the disaster declaration report to unlock national and provincial aid.
“Looking to the future, the department is committed to building back better. This is not just about restoration, it’s about resilience. We will invest in sustainable, climate-smart infrastructure that can better withstand future shocks,” she said.
Makatong also extended her appreciation to the people of Namakwa for their patience, resilience, and cooperation. She said her department urges community members to assist by reporting dangerous road conditions, including photos and GPS locations, via the Roads WhatsApp Line at 066 581 5626.
“Residents are also encouraged to remain cautious around heavy machinery and to stay updated through local radio stations and the official Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works Facebook page.
“This is a shared effort, together; we will rebuild, recover, and emerge stronger. In the Nama Khoi Municipal area, roads such as Droedap Road (DR2951), Wildeperdehoek Pass (DR2952), Concordia/Goodhouse Road (DR2958) and Goodhouse/Witbank Road (DR3251), also suffered extensive damage,” said Makatong.
She said in the Hantam Municipal area near Calvinia, affected roads include, Losperplaas Road (DR2948), Brandvlei/Katkop Road (DR2976), Granaatboskolk Road (DR2972) and Bonekraal Road (DR2275).
The Guardian 