Flooded Access Route Cuts Off Wales Village

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Residents of Wales Village in Ward 32 have been left completely cut off from essential services after heavy rains caused the area’s only access route to flood, raising serious safety and humanitarian concerns.

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According to community members, the flooding has submerged a low-lying bridge that serves as the sole entry and exit point to the village. Residents say the situation is unprecedented, with water levels higher than those experienced during the severe floods of 2000.

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Although an assessment was previously conducted for the construction of a proper bridge, the process never progressed beyond that stage. In addition, residents were promised a tarred ring road during the 2019 election period, but no development has since taken place.

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As a result, the community is now isolated. In the event of a medical emergency, residents are unable to reach a clinic, hospital or mortuary. Community leaders warn that this lack of access places lives at immediate risk, as even minor illnesses or accidents could turn fatal due to delays in receiving help.

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The flooding also poses a serious danger to learners who must cross the affected route to attend school. With persistent rainfall, many children may be unable to travel safely, potentially disrupting their education and exposing them to further risk.

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Calls have been made for urgent intervention by the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport to implement immediate temporary measures to restore safe access. Residents are also demanding that long-term solutions, including the construction of a proper bridge and the promised tarred road, be prioritised without further delay.

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Community members say reliable infrastructure is essential, not optional, and that no village should be left stranded whenever it rains. They are urging authorities to act swiftly to ensure safety, dignity and uninterrupted access to vital services for the people of Wales Village.

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