"The devastation caused by the recent floods in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, demonstrates again that the country is not moving fast enough to adopt appropriate urban planning. It should be integrating risk assessment and management in the design and development of cities. This is becoming more urgent as the frequency of floods increases.
Most South African cities were built a long time ago, before climate change was predicted. KZN experienced flooding in July 2016, May 2017, October 2017, March 2019, April 2019, November 2019, November 2020, April 2023, June 2023, and now in January 2024. South Africa has a comprehensive national climate change adaptation strategy, and the authorities are aware of flood damage, but are not able to keep up with the repairs.
I recently edited a book on inclusive cities [Urban inclusivity in Southern Africa] in which I write about the way South Africa has dealt with natural disasters. There is a lack of risk-informed urban planning. This is an approach to designing and developing urban areas with risk in mind. It aims to create resilient cities that can withstand and adapt to various hazards and challenges, such as natural disasters, climate change and social vulnerabilities.
SA CITIES ARE NOT RESILIENT
The devastation caused by the recent floods indicates lack of resilience and increasing social vulnerabilities. More than 45 people have died in the last two months; more than 250 homes have been severely damaged. Severe flooding and landslides caused by heavy rainfall caused the deaths of at least 459 people in April 2022. These floods displaced over 40,000 people, destroyed over 12,000 houses, and left 45,000 people temporarily unemployed.
Esta historia es de la edición February 09, 2024 de Farmer's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición February 09, 2024 de Farmer's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Western Cape pet owners urged to vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies
The Western Cape Department of Agriculture is urging people to vaccinate their animals against rabies after a confirmed case in Cape Town.
Concerns arise over potential Irish potato shortage
Consumers may soon experience a shortage of Irish potatoes, leading to potentially higher prices.
Industry players debate call to extend tariff rebates for imported chicken
The debate over extending tariff rebates on chicken imported into South Africa continues as industry players argue over market dynamics and food affordability.
Wildlife income dives as minister stays mum on hunting quotas
The South African wildlife industry faces an uncertain future in light of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment's delay in publishing this year's annual hunting quota.
Four apps to improve productivity and more
There are a range of apps available on the South African market to help farmers improve efficiency and production. We explore four of them here.
Fun, games and ancient rites on board the greatest ocean liner still in service
With King Neptune’s permission, pollywog Brian Berkman crossed the equator on board the Queen Mary 2 and is now a proud shellback. He gives the lowdown on the variety of pursuits avaliable on this luxurious ship.
Choosing the right nitrogen type
Various nitrogenous fertilisers are available. Your choice will depend on environmental considerations, cost, availability, and so on, writes Bill Kerr.
Hydrogen: a vehicle emissions reduction alternative?
The current narrative around vehicle electrification typically covers battery cost, raw materials, weight, driving range, or charging infrastructure – all battery electric vehicle issues. There is rarely any discussion around the use of hydrogen as an alternative means of achieving vehicle emission targets. Why this apparent lack of interest?
Cotton industry comes together to forge a new future
A strategic cotton summit held recently in Limpopo was an important step towards creating unity in the industry and a common goal throughout the entire cotton value chain.
Understanding the basics of chicken abattoirs and related legislation
South Africa has strict laws that regulate the slaughtering of animals in commercial abattoirs. In this article, Farmer's Weekly looks at how a chicken abattoir works, what facilities are needed and what the laws are that govern the establishment and operation of such abattoirs.