Residents of Kaalfontein Extension 5 are growing increasingly frustrated by the lack of political action to address ongoing flooding issues in their community. The area has become a hotspot for poor drainage and pollution, leaving homes vulnerable after heavy rains. The situation has worsened over the years, as land invaders built shacks along a nearby stream, blocking its natural flow. Despite numerous complaints, the authorities have failed to remove the structures, allowing debris and sewage to accumulate.
When it rains, the stream no longer drains properly, causing water to flood into nearby homes. On the night of 12 November, some residents were forced to sleep standing, as their furniture and beds were soaked by rainwater that poured into their homes. The following day, they attempted to mop up the water, but the relentless flow meant the water kept returning, leaving their belongings soaked in filthy water.
Residents blame the lack of proper stormwater drainage and weak enforcement of land-use laws. “Land invaders grabbed the stream because our laws are weak. People shouldn’t be allowed to settle wherever they like, and now we’re suffering the consequences,” said one affected resident. The issue is compounded by a poorly constructed tar road that has been washed away by rain, unable to drain properly due to the absence of adequate stormwater systems.
Local councillor Charmaine Ngoepe has been working with the Joburg Roads Agency (JRA) to clear the debris that piles up in the streets and yards. However, due to the proximity of the informal structures, the JRA has been unable to use heavy machinery to clean the blocked stream. While stormwater drains do exist in the area, they are insufficient to handle the volume of water, and the residents feel that more needs to be done to address the ongoing flooding problem.
