The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has called on municipalities to strictly enforce by-laws prohibiting construction near rivers, following deadly flash floods in New Hanover in the uMshwathi Local Municipality on Sunday night.
The storm triggered severe flooding that swept away three people, destroyed homes and damaged road infrastructure. Rescue teams recovered the body of a woman on Monday, while two others remain missing. COGTA confirmed that seven districts across the province were affected, with uMshwathi suffering the worst impact.
MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi said the tragedy underscored the need for stricter enforcement of building regulations.
“We must agree as government that we need to enforce by-laws at a much stricter level. In many cases, people built in areas where the municipality had not given permission. Municipalities must act firmly, because this is what will save lives,” he said.
Meanwhile, the family of 27-year-old Zanele Ndlela remains distraught as the search for her continues. Neighbours say she tried to escape rising waters, but powerful river currents swept away her rented room while she was inside.
Family spokesperson Ntokozo Ndlela said they are desperate for closure.
“We heard about this yesterday around 11. She held onto a tree when her room collapsed, but the water was too strong. Even the foundation of the house was washed away. We are hoping to join the search and find her, even if it’s just a part of her body, so we can have closure. The whole family is devastated it has made my mother very sick,” he said.
Search and rescue efforts are expected to continue as authorities assess damage and support affected households.