Khedama notifies motorists and road users that the areas in and around the subway in Fort Road are temporarily closed. He tells OFM News that this is due to vandalism of equipment that is used to clear drainage channels and water from under the bridge.

Moreover, continued rains have interrupted the blading and refilling of potholes, therefore motorists are urged to make use of alternative routes, adds Khedama.

He notifies road users that the South African Weather Service has issued a level 2 warning, warning communities of disruptive rain with increasing potential of localised flooding, most especially in areas with insufficient drainage systems, those in low-lying areas, roads, and informal settlements.

Khedama adds that the loss of agricultural production is a high possibility. He urges all road users to be overly cautious of the following flooded roads: James Dick, Dr Belcher, Curie Avenue, Wilcocks, OR Tambo, Fort Hare, Ferreira, and Memoriam Road.

In addition, he adds that law enforcement will be present at flooding hotspots to direct traffic and ensure ease of movement.

Khedama asks that households make pathways to help guide the excessive amounts of water out of their yards as best they can.

“We want to apologise for the inconveniences caused to the drivers and road users and we will start again to fill potholes as soon as the skies clear up,“ Khedama says.

In case of emergency, residents should contact:

•Mangaung Fire Department: 051-406-6666/051-409-9600 or toll-free 107

•Ambulance 10777

The contact details for the Mangaung Metropolitan municipality’s regional managers:

Botshabelo: Tshoeute Matutle 082-418-5859

Thabo Nchu: Pascalina Thakheli 064-526-5194

Dewetsdorp/Naledi: Thato Khoase 051-541-0012

OFM News/ Shirndré-Lee Simmons