Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy says it is planning to visit Jagersfontein following the mudslide that devastated the area on Sunday.
At least one person has died, 40 have been taken to hospital and two others are missing after a dam wall of a disused mine in the Free State province burst, causing mudslide, and destroying homes and infrastructure.
“We are going to consult with the Portfolio Committee on Water Affairs and Sanitation with a view to conduct an urgent joint oversight visit to the affected area because we appreciate that underground, surface and dam water resources fall under their purview.
“We reiterate our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and friends, and assure them of our support during this very difficult time. May the… deceased rest in eternal peace,” the committee’s chairperson, Sahlulele Luzipo, said.
Meanwhile, the state power utility, Eskom says plans to restore bulk electricity supply to the disaster hit areas are on track, with power expected to be back on Tuesday.
Eskom’s Rietkuil substation in the area was engulfed in mud, which damaged infrastructure. The substation is a supply point of Centlec – the bulk electricity supplier for both Jagersfontein and Charlesville.
The electricity supplier warned that other areas not receiving power from Centlec may have to wait slightly longer for supply restoration.
