In April 2022, the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) North Coast experienced an unprecedented natural disaster when heavy rains led to catastrophic flooding, marking one of the most severe weather events in the region’s history. This was a result of a subtropical depression known as storm Issa which brought about lengthy periods of intense rainfall, with some areas receiving more than 450 millimetres of precipitation. This extreme weather event was not only uncommon but also devastating, leading to significant loss of life and widespread destruction of property.
In the aftermath of the floods, the communities along the KZN North Coast, particularly those beyond the Durban area, faced persistent challenges with water supply due to damaged infrastructure that remains unrepaired. The collaborative efforts of Amrut alongside Hope SA, the International Association for Human Values, and Seva International have been instrumental in providing relief. With Amrut assisting in raising funds, these partner organisations successfully distributed over 23,000 litres of drinking water to the affected residents in and around Verulam.
Residents expressed their gratitude towards the teams who established accessible collection stations, offering much-needed drinking water at no cost. Amrut, in turn, extended its appreciation to its partners for their commitment, particularly in delivering water directly to households with elderly residents, ensuring their well-being during these trying times. As the situation continues to evolve, Amrut remains vigilant, monitoring the conditions for potential further interventions. The organization is also advocating for the local authorities to acknowledge the severity of the community’s struggles and to prioritize the resolution of ongoing service delivery issues, with additional support measures in development.
