LHDA Urges Caution Amid Rising Drowning Incidents and Severe Flooding at Katse Dam
The festive season has been marred by a significant increase in drowning incidents in Lesotho, prompting urgent safety warnings from the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA). In response to the escalating risks, LHDA has released a report highlighting severe flooding at the Katse Dam, urging nearby villages, including Malibamatso and Senqu, to exercise extreme caution during the rainy season.
In an interview on Monday, LHDA’s Senior Public Relations Officer, Mr. Tlali Nchai, addressed the growing concerns, confirming that the water levels at Katse Dam have risen notably due to the ongoing rainfall. While he expressed a hopeful outlook for the rainy season, he stressed the importance of safety measures to mitigate the risk of flooding and drowning.
“The rising water levels at Katse Dam pose a real danger to those in the surrounding communities. We urge residents to avoid crossing areas where the water may be unsafe, as the overflow from the dam increases the potential for flooding,” Mr. Nchai warned.
Katse Dam, located in the Malibamatso River, is one of Lesotho’s most iconic and spectacular water features, and the second largest dam in Africa. However, as beautiful as it is, the dam’s waters can become treacherous, especially during the rainy season when they overflow into surrounding areas.
Mr. Nchai emphasized the LHDA’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of both people and animals in the region, noting that the authority’s primary goal is to prevent any harm to the local communities. He called on residents to stay away from the water and adhere to safety precautions to avoid tragic accidents, particularly as the water levels continue to rise.
As the rainy season progresses, it is crucial that surrounding villages stay informed and vigilant about the risks posed by the dam’s overflow. The LHDA’s timely warnings serve as a reminder of the potential dangers and the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety.
