Water and electricity services restored in Imizamo Yethu, relief efforts continue
The City of Cape Town, as the lead authority, has restored water and electricity services in Imizamo Yethu following the devastating fire which occurred over the weekend. Standpipes and temporary flood lights are also in the process of being installed. The City’s electricity services, solid waste, and cleansing staff remain on site.
The City continues to work with the national and provincial governments, non-governmental organisation partners, and local community organisations to ensure that there is a coordinated response to the tragedy so that the best long-term outcome can be achieved for all the residents of Imizamo Yethu.
Our Informal Settlements Management Department’s registration process for the number of structures affected is under way and thus far 1 963 affected households have been registered and verified. The provision of building kits (which are a unique City of Cape Town relief tool) and the redesign and restructuring of the area is expected to cost close to R100 million.
The redesign will allow us to install firebreaks, pedestrian walkways, and other access to basic and emergency services which we have not been able to do previously due to the density of this settlement.
Approximately 300 City solid waste management staff are also on site and clearing of the debris has begun. It is hoped that the process of removing the debris will be completed early next week.