Tragedy Deepens in Eastern Cape as Flood Death Toll Rises to Nine
The devastating floods wreaking havoc in the Eastern Cape have now claimed nine lives, with authorities confirming two additional deaths in Mthatha overnight. Rescue efforts remain ongoing and treacherous, as a school bus carrying pupils remains missing after being swept away near Efata Bridge.
The incident follows days of torrential rain and snowfall, which triggered widespread flash floods across the province, causing destruction to homes, roads, and community infrastructure.
Missing School Bus and Ongoing Search
Emergency teams, supported by volunteers and provincial authorities, are combing through debris and floodwaters in a desperate search for the missing children, some of whom were aboard the ill-fated school bus when it was engulfed by rising waters.
Despite three pupils being rescued, several remain unaccounted for, intensifying the heartbreak felt across the province.
Government Response Amid Growing Outcry
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has mobilized the provincial disaster response team, focusing on the OR Tambo District, the worst-hit area. Relief efforts include temporary shelters, food parcels, and psychological support for affected families.
However, online backlash is mounting, with citizens slamming infrastructure neglect as a contributing factor. A 2023 GroundUp report is now circulating widely, citing poorly maintained stormwater drainage systems as a long-standing risk that authorities failed to address.
“This tragedy didn’t come out of nowhere — it’s the result of ignored warnings and broken systems,” one social media user posted.
A Province in Mourning, A Nation Demanding Accountability
As the death toll rises and the search for missing children continues, South Africans are calling for more than just emergency aid — they want accountability and long-term investment in climate-resilient infrastructure.
The Eastern Cape floods have become a symbol of avoidable tragedy, rooted as much in nature’s force as in the state’s failure to prepare.
