Needed rain sometimes not so heavenly

It comes with natural disasters such as flooding, writes Gram Chigura.

It is now common knowledge that the rainy season does not only bring relief, but those heavenly rains come with natural disasters in the form of flooding and deadly cyclones.

Since 2000, SA, particularly the central and eastern areas, has experienced an increase in the occurrence of natural disasters such as landslides.

South Africa, as the most resourced country on the continent, has been at the forefront of providing assistance to victims in impoverished neighbouring countries. So instead of reacting to problems, why not embark on a path to minimise the effects of these problems?

For example, people live on the banks of the Jukskei River in Alexandra. That is a disaster waiting to happen. If they can’t be persuaded to leave, forcefully evict them for their own safety.

Countries like Mozambique should also move people living in low-lying areas. This problem is now a common feature in the region come March and April, when the cyclone season starts.

I remember seeing government officials rushing to KZN to console bereaved families of floods and landslides. Much was said about measures being put in place, but so far nothing tangible has been done.

The loss of one life is one too many,

Efforts must be put in place to minimise the effects of natural disasters. Don’t show sympathy for something that could have been avoided.