LAPLAND RESIDENTS CONTINUE TO RELOCATE TO SAFETY IN VAN ROOYEN AREA

The 25 people that have been relocated today add to the 30 that was relocated last week. In total, 55 people have been relocated, with more relocations expected as the week progresses. These relocations follow intensive relocation site preparation that included environmental impact assessment applications, public engagements and the construction of temporary structures.

Thanks to the support from the National Human Settlements Department, the Metro plans to erect 154 temporary houses to accommodate residents from the Lapland McCarthy and Grogro areas. Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Councillor Thembinkosi Mafana said the relocation is the result of collaboration by different spheres of government.

"We are pleased that we are relocating the people of the Lapland and McCarthy areas. They will now spend their Christmas in a safe place while waiting for their subsidised houses. These are efforts that we make as a caring government to ensure that people stay in dignity, even if they do not have formal houses yet," said MMC Mafana. One of the relocated Lapland residents, Elsie Seekoei said she is very happy that she has moved to a safe place after having experienced floods more than once. "I have experienced the pain so many times. It is heart-warming to know that today, as the rain continues to pour, I will be safe. I am really thankful for this rescue," she said.

Relocations are set to proceed until all the effected residents have been relocated.