More Umlazi residents demand evacuation after weather-related destruction left them homeless

DURBAN - Some community members left homeless by inclement weather conditions causing underground shifts in Umlazi, South of Durban, are demanding to be moved from the area, citing safety concerns.
 
Fifty-six homes have been destroyed by harsh weather conditions in the area, leaving many desperate for temporary housing.

And while the government will relocate some of those affected, some say no one should be left behind.

ALSO READ: Human Settlements Dept relocates 56 families whose homes were destroyed in Umlazi, Durban

The government says the process of relocating community members affected by sporadic dangerous shifts underground in Umlazi will start on Thursday.

This will accommodate those with damaged homes.

However, some community members say most houses here are a ticking time bomb.  

Community member Nonkululeko Khambule said, “Another request is that we would like to see the families that will be left behind being assisted as well, because what happened to us can also happen to them when heavy rains return.”

But Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane says the government has to prioritise those who are in a dire situation first.