28 March 2008
Windhoek — Newly built roads in three north-central regions did not have enough culverts or bridges, which caused floodwater to dam up and cause damage of N$43,8 million to these roads.
This is revealed in a report tabled in the National Assembly this week. "The flooding situation has impacted to a very large extent on the newly constructed road infrastructure - mainly gravel and feeder roads - in the Oshakati, Ohangwena and Omusati regions, leaving Oshikoto, Kavango and Caprivi not too seriously affected," says the report, tabled by Deputy Prime Minister Dr Libertina Amathila.
The road damage "is primarily due to floodwater obstruction and [too few] bridges, especially on the newly constructed roads", it notes.
As a result, the water washed away some roads, small bridges and culverts at 96 spots.
The roads dammed the water and as a result some areas were flooded more than others.
The Roads Authority only has N$5,8 million available to repair the damage and to put in more bridges, pipes and culverts.
Many people affected by the floods in the four north-central regions built their houses in natural waterways, the report notes.
So far, 29 flood deaths have been confirmed, according to the report compiled by officials of the Emergency Management Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister.
This unit is to be changed into the Directory of Emergency Management.
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