The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre has confirmed a devastating turn of events, with the recovery of four individuals in Ladysmith following destructive floods. The relentless downpour on Christmas Eve led to the Bellspruit River breaching its confines beneath the Mbonothu Bridge, unleashing cascades of water onto the N11 road near the Limit Hill robots in Ladysmith Town. This calamity exacted a heavy toll, resulting in multiple casualties and leaving others unaccounted for.
As the search and rescue teams, aided by the South African Police Service (SAPS), labor towards the identification of the deceased, the communities await closure with bated breath. The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. In this time of anguish, the government has pledged unwavering support, encompassing bereavement counseling and facilitation of burial arrangements for all affected families.
The magnitude of the tragedy has spurred a cooperative mobilization of resources, with neighboring provinces bolstering the search efforts. The KwaZulu-Natal government has affirmed an unyielding commitment to furnishing updates as the situation unfolds. The MEC has conveyed profound appreciation for the relentless dedication exhibited by the search and rescue teams, spearheaded by the SAPS K9 Unit, in collaboration with PSS Medical Rescue, the AL-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster, and the South African Red Cross.
Efforts persist on the ground as the quest for the missing individuals continues. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this calamitous event, hope intertwines with the steadfast determination of the tireless search and rescue personnel, embodying an unwavering resolve to bring closure to the grieving families.
