Residents of Rosemary Drive in Brindhaven, who endured devastating flooding during the 2022 and 2024 storm events, are cautiously optimistic that ongoing stormwater upgrades will finally provide relief from a problem that has threatened homes and lives for years.

Several homeowners in the area described harrowing experiences as floodwaters surged through properties during major storms, causing extensive damage and forcing families to fear for their safety.

Ward 106 councillor, Johnson Chetty, said residents in the area were among the hardest hit during both the April 2022 floods and a severe flash flooding event in 2024.

“People nearly lost their lives. Floodwater reached ceiling height in some homes, and Several houses were severely affected,” he said.

Chetty recalled that on the day of the flood in 2024, Rosemary Drive appeared like a raging river, with flood water gushing down the street in torrents, an end result of a culvert at the top of the road being blocked with debris that prevented rain water from entering the stormwater drains.

ALSO READ: Local heroes prevent flooding on Naidoo Road in Tongaat

Following a meeting at Cllr Chetty’s office with community members and municipal officials, and sustained pressure from residents and community representatives, municipal engineering officials eventually undertook a comprehensive review of the area’s stormwater challenges.

As a result, a significant upgrade project is now underway.

The works include the installation of larger stormwater pipes, the construction of gabion basket retaining structures, culvert cleaning and improvements designed to increase the capacity of the drainage system and reduce the risk of future flooding.

Contractors have already begun excavations and infrastructure improvements, while vegetation and debris that previously obstructed water flow have been cleared from key areas.

Residents who have monitored the project say the upgrades represent the most substantial intervention they have seen in years.

One homeowner expressed appreciation for the progress made so far, noting that long-standing drainage concerns were finally receiving attention.

While acknowledging that no stormwater system can eliminate flooding entirely during extreme weather events, engineers and community leaders believe the improvements will significantly reduce the risk of a repeat of the devastation experienced in previous years.