adminNqobile Tshili Chronicle Correspondent
THE Civil Protection Unit (CPU) is ready to avert any danger of floods following rains that fell in the southern part of the country.
The CPU has already communicated to flood-prone districts in low lying areas to be on alert.
Matabeleland South and North, which are disaster prone areas, yesterday told The Chronicle they received warnings from the Meteorological Service Department over possible floods.
Matabeleland South provincial administrator, Midard Khumalo, said the province had put measures in place to arrest the flood threat.
“I can confirm that we received warning of the possibility of floods that are expected this week. We’ve communicated this message to all the districts in the province so that they’re on alert,” said Khumalo.
He said they were working to contain the flood threats by ensuring that district administrators, who are CPU’s district chairpersons, cascade information on floods to people in low lying areas.
Khumalo said the province was concerned about areas such as Beitbridge and Bulilima Districts which are prone to floods and violent storms.
The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs for Matabeleland North, Cde Cain Mathema, said the CPU was ready to deal with any natural disasters threatening the province.
“The CPU is always ready for any eventualities. We’re prepared to deal with any catastrophe. We’re not just waiting for floods but we are prepared for disasters all year round,” said Minister Mathema.
He said all districts in Matabeleland North are making headway in preparing for any emergencies.
Minister Mathema said in the event of a disaster, the Defence Forces can even send troops to assist the province as was witnessed in previous instances with Tsholotsho District.
The Meteorological Service Department over the weekend issued a statement warning members of the public of heavy rains that may lead to floods.
Areas such as Tsholotsho are prone to flooding whenever the country experiences heavy rains.
Online Reporter