Bhisho - Eastern Cape Local Government and Traditional Affairs MEC, Mlibo Qoboshiyane, is happy with the way Buffalo City Metro officials reacted to floods that hit the city on Tuesday.
Qoboshiyane was this morning assessing the damage in the areas worst-affected by the storm in East London. The city received 42mm of rain in just one hour.
"This was a natural disaster that no-one expected to happen. I'm happy with the way the Metro reacted to the situation by proactively moving in to clear roads, clearing blocked drains and helping to house some of the families whose shacks were damaged by the floods," said Qoboshiyane.
He added that government would do its best to provide those affected by the storm with food and mattresses, in addition to the blankets already provided by the Metro.
Qoboshiyane visited Duncan Village, Buffalo Flats and Egoli to assess damage to houses and the streets. He also visited a community hall that's being used to house some of the flood victims, and even helped in the clean up of one of the homes.
"Our thoughts are with all the people affected by the floods. We're working hard to provide a co-ordinated government response to the challenges presented by the floods," said Qoboshiyane.
He added that officials from relevant departments would meet today to come up with a strategy to deal with the damage.
"The report will be sent to me today and I will liaise with the acting premier and relevant MECs so that we can help people immediately," said Qoboshiyane.
People wishing to donate food, clothing and blankets to affected residents can contact the Metro on (043) 705-9000.