An investigation by the Department of Water and Sanitation discovered that the dams which collapsed under heavy rains, were constructed without proper licenses
The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) is set to face consequences for the failure of several dams in the Western Cape, which led to extensive damage to property and infrastructure. An investigation by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) revealed that the dams, constructed without proper licensing, were unable to withstand severe weather conditions that struck the Swartland town of Riverlands on August 8th.
The resulting floods left residents without tap water as the area's water pipe network sustained significant damage. Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Mojodina announced that the DWS would seek financial compensation from the DLRRD to cover infrastructure repairs, though compensation for individual losses remains outside the department's mandate. The investigation report has been shared with relevant departments, and the DWS expects a written response within 14 days.
Swartland Local Municipality Mayor Harold Cleophas estimated preliminary repair costs at around R50 million, but noted that the final figure could rise. The Dassenberg Farm, where the five dams were located along the Swart River, has a troubled history. The oldest dam dates back to the 1960s, with the largest constructed in 2005. The property was acquired by the DLRRD in 2019, but it appears the department failed to conduct due diligence on the legality and safety of the dams, which were never licensed as required by the National Water Act.
The DLRRD is now tasked with presenting a rehabilitation plan for the affected areas and ensuring compliance with the relevant legislation. If the department intends to rebuild the dams, it must secure the necessary water use and dam safety licenses from the DWS. Additionally, the Swartland municipality has been advised to conduct a stormwater management assessment to evaluate the ongoing risk posed by the Swart River in the absence of the dams.
Western Cape Local Government MEC Anton Bredell praised the DWS for its transparency, urging the local community and municipality to consider a class action lawsuit to recoup their losses. The DLRRD's response to the report is awaited.
