These closures are implemented in the interest of public safety and remain in full force until officially lifted.
“We urge motorists not to enter roads or areas that have been closed off,” says Michelle Kleinhans, incident commander for the current flood incident. “Failure to comply with these closures could result in damage to vehicles, personal injury, or entrapment.
ALSO READ: Kruger Park open, but quota system in place due to more road damage overnight
“The Incident Management Team was established in 2015 during the previous flooding incident. The team only becomes operational for such incidents and is there to ensure the safety of the people in Marloth Park. We have an official delegation of authority from Marloth Park Emergency Services, so this is an official service” she says.
Kleinhans is a qualified incident commander and runs a business called Dynamic Incident Management that provides training as well as incident-management services. Despite the delegation of authority to the Incident Management Team, her involvement in Marloth Park is on a voluntary basis – Marloth Park is not paying her for her services.
ALSO READ: Kruger Park open, but quota system in place due to more road damage overnight
The roads that have been closed due to the unsafe conditions are: Crocodile, Seekoei, Kudu, Hornbill, Luiperd (also via Erdvark to Olifant), Raasblaar, Leeu (between Impala & Gemsbok), cnr Buffalo & Seekoei, Volstruis (towards Finch), Spinnekop/Swarwitpens, Bottom of Kingfisher, Swallow & Renoster, Fig Tree (dip towards Maroela Farm), Eland, Olifant/Waterbok, Jackal, Duiker, and the gravel road from Gate 1 to the N4.
Kleinhans says there is a huge problem with people who do not comply with these closures.
“Any individual who becomes stranded or requires assistance, need to note that the Incident Management Team will only assist with facilitating a recovery service. The owner will have to pay the external recovery service provider. Obviously, recovery time cannot be guaranteed.
“Non-compliance places unnecessary strain on emergency-response resources and may delay response to other emergencies.”
ALSO READ: MESCA Lowveld Cottages residents set to travel in style
With the disruptive rainfall and a current Level-5 weather warning, all residents and visitors are strongly advised to avoid all non-essential travel and to remain indoors where possible.
“If visitors are planning to visit Marloth Park, we want to urge them to seriously consider moving their trip to next week, when conditions might have gotten better. With the roads in this condition, you basically cannot drive around in Marloth Park at all. The Kruger National Park also introduced a quote at the gates, so visitors would have to stay put.
“We ask that the people in Marloth park please cooperate with the team. Let us make this a team effort to keep everyone safe. A flood is hard to manage with unpredictable water levels. We monitor water levels and the weather continuously and will share updates regularly.
“Your cooperation is required and appreciated to protect public safety and emergency personnel. Safety is each person’s responsibility,” she says.
These measures remain in effect while hazardous conditions persist and until formally withdrawn by the Incident Management Team.
You can contact Michelle Kleinhans, Incident Commander, on 060 345 5362 for further information.
