The disastrous floods in KwaZulu-Natal have led to a river of tears. This province, which is still recovering from last year’s riots, is now mourning more than 300 people who lost their lives in the deluge.
Scores of others were injured, property loss is extensive and vital infrastructure has been devastated.
The weather pattern — a cut-off low — that caused the rain was not unusual. Nor is it the first time Durban and its surrounds experienced serious floods.
However, this week’s rainfall reached record heights at a number of places and the death toll is far higher than that recorded in previous floods.
Opposition politicians are already blaming the ANC administration for the tragedy.
However, it is not the time to point fingers. Those who lost relatives and have been left homeless need comforting.
The immediate focus must be on relief efforts and the restoration of essential services such as electricity, water and telecommunications, as well as opening major thoroughfares.
There is, however, a lesson to be learnt. Local authorities, not only in KwaZulu-Natal but also in this province and the rest of SA, must take the necessary measures to lessen the effects of potential natural disasters.
This is not least because scientists have warned that more extreme weather, giving rise to floods, drought and fierce fires, is in the offing as a result of global warming and consequent climate change.
There can be no place for state housing built so poorly that it is vulnerable to the elements. The same applies to bridges and roads.
Settlement along rivers and on marshy land, or on steep slopes, is hazardous and should be actively discouraged.
The provincial government must ensure local authorities pay due attention to managing waste disposal and drainage and that they have the resources to competently handle a disaster.
These basics will go a long way towards preventing an even greater tragedy occurring in the future.
HeraldLIVE