Government Issues 90-Day Ultimatum Over Beitbridge Flooding Crisis

Government has given Beitbridge Municipality 90 days to resolve chronic flooding and service delivery problems in Dulivhadzimu Township, as authorities move to avert further damage during the rainy season (image source)

BEITBRIDGE — Government has given Beitbridge Municipality a 90-day ultimatum to address persistent flooding, poor roads and service delivery challenges in Dulivhadzimu Township, one of the town’s most flood-prone areas. The directive was issued yesterday by the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, during a tour of the affected areas.

Minister Nguluvhe was accompanied by senior Government officials, members of the Civil Protection Committee and Beitbridge Town Clerk Loud Ramakgapola. Dulivhadzimu residents, particularly those living near the old long-distance bus terminus, business centre, police base, hostels, flea market and stadium, have endured years of recurring flash floods during the rainy season.

“The issue of flash floods, bad roads and poor service delivery should be put to rest,” said Minister Nguluvhe. “We need teamwork and wide consultation to find a lasting solution. People cannot continue living in fear every time it rains.” He stressed the need for collaboration between central Government, local authorities and the private sector, with emphasis on drainage upgrades, infrastructure planning and improved service delivery.

(image source)

In response, the municipality has relocated the long-distance bus terminus to higher ground, with civil works now underway after a private contractor was dismissed for poor performance. Mr Ramakgapola said the council had issued a tender for a feasibility study to guide urban renewal in Dulivhadzimu and had set aside ZWG3 million for drainage improvements and desilting works. He added that the council is seeking Government approval for direct procurement to fast-track urgent interventions.

Chairperson of the Civil Protection Committee, Mrs Sikhangzile Mafu, said authorities remain on high alert as the rainy season continues. She noted that 23 houses have collapsed in rural Beitbridge due to moisture, although no fatalities have been recorded. Evacuation centres, mainly schools and churches, have been identified in flood-prone wards.