Provinces count the cost of rains damages stats across provinces. . .Matabeleland South loses five bridges, eight dams, three roads

Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter

THE relentless heavy rains that have pounded the country over the past two months have left a trail of destruction, with 60 reported deaths and a cumulative total of more than US$14 million worth of infrastructure destroyed in seven provinces.

Harare, Bulawayo and Masvingo are yet to quantify the amount of destruction although 36 deaths were recorded in Masvingo Province alone.

Matabeleland South Province has borne the brunt of the devastation with infrastructure worth more than US$13 million destroyed.

According to the Civil Protection Unit (CPU)’s acting Chief Director Mr Farai Hokonya, in Matabeleland South, the torrential rains continue to wreak havoc on roads, bridges, and irrigation schemes.

Mr Hokonya highlighted the widespread damage caused by the rains saying they have been exacerbated by the simultaneous development of two moderate tropical storms, Garance and Honde, over the South-West Indian Ocean.

The storms have triggered flooding, landslides and the destruction of critical infrastructure, leaving communities isolated and vulnerable.

In Matabeleland South, according to Mr Hokonya, five bridges, eight dams and three roads have been destroyed, severely disrupting transportation and access to essential services.

The province has also seen the destruction of a solar-powered water system and a small weir, further compounding the challenges faced by local communities.

“The cumulative damage to infrastructure in Matabeleland South’s bill of quantities amounts to US$13 761 663,84, with significant losses recorded in irrigation schemes, bridges, and roads.

“The destruction of these critical assets has left many communities cut off and without access to basic services,” said Mr Hokonya.

He also noted that the heavy rains have hit farmlands, destroying crops and threatening food security in the region.

Farmers in the province are facing significant losses, with fields submerged under floodwaters and irrigation systems rendered inoperable.

While Matabeleland South has been hit particularly hard, the rains have caused widespread destruction across other provinces as well.

In Manicaland, infrastructure damage is estimated at over US$7  000, with four shops, a church and several bridges destroyed.

The province has also reported 12 deaths and four injuries, underscoring the human toll of the disaster.

In the Midlands Province, the rains have caused over US$55 000 in damage, with 15 Zesa poles destroyed and several roads rendered impassable.

Mr Hokonya highlighted the destruction of the Buchwa Road, which has left communities in the area isolated and without access to essential services.

He said Mashonaland West has also suffered significant losses, with infrastructure damage estimated at over US$182 439. The Chegutu District Registrar’s Offices and several buildings in the light industry area have been severely damaged, further straining local resources.

In Mashonaland Central, the rains have destroyed the Mushumbi-Chikafa Road, causing over US$64  000 in damage.

The province has also reported one death and four injuries, with several schools and health facilities affected by flooding.

The heavy rains have not only destroyed infrastructure but have also claimed lives and displaced families across the country.

In Matabeleland North, three people have died, and four others injured with infrastructure damage estimated at over US$21 000.

In Masvingo Province, while the bill of quantities is still pending, 47 households have so far been affected by the rains with the Chikuku Janet Road having been destroyed.

Mr Hokonya has urged communities across the country to take heed of safety advisories and evacuate to safer shelters when necessary.

“There is an increase in drowning cases, mining incidents and marooning incidents. In the same vein, citizens should refrain from crossing flooded rivers while artisanal miners are encouraged to suspend operations until conditions stabilize to prevent further tragedies,” he said.

The CPU has already begun providing assistance to affected areas, distributing food, fuel and other essential supplies.

However, with the rains expected to continue, the situation remains dire and more support will be needed to help communities recover from the devastation.