Pretoria - With the destruction caused by floods in KwaZulu-Natal carrying a heavy price tag, the provincial Cabinet has declared some parts of the province disaster areas.
The decision to declare uThukela, Sisonke, Amajuba, Ilembe and eThekwini disaster areas was based on the magnitude of damage they sustained due to incessant rains and flooding.
A comprehensive report on the disaster incidents which took place in the province over the festive season indicates that damage is well into the millions - it is estimated at R715 816 400. The report highlighted that climate change manifests itself in various forms and the whole world has been affected - KwaZulu-Natal has been no exception.
The provincial cabinet said in a statement it was saddened to note that many lives were lost, while 147 people have been seriously injured.
"We have accounted for 22 519 people who have been left in distress, and in total, 6 271 households have been destroyed. Relief efforts will be coordinated through our Provincial Disaster Management Centre, which will engage various stakeholders in addressing the needs that have emerged," said the cabinet.
Various members of the provincial cabinet have already visited the affected communities.
In addition, the KZN premier is expected to be joined by Human Settlements Minister, Tokyo Sexwale, on visits to some of these areas.
