By Loy Matare
City of Harare has dismissed social media claims that the municipality is responsible for the weekend floods in Glen View 7 Extension, blaming instead irregular development by a private company.
This follows a rapid assessment by the City of Harare squad including Disaster Management Committee Chairperson Cllr Jane Bingari, which visited the area yesterday after videos surfaced showing collapsed gates and streets submerged in water.
Acting Head of Strategy Amos Muguti said the area’s lack of proper infrastructure and blocked natural waterways made it highly susceptible to severe flooding.
“Our inspection revealed that Glen View 7 falls under Mtungwazi and was developed by Paradise Property Development Company without any approval or permits from the City.
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“The houses are built on wetlands, with no proper roads, sewer, or water systems. The residents affected by the floods purchased stands from the developer under these unsafe conditions.”
City Environmental Scientist Charles Mabika echoed Muguti’s sentiments, saying the area’s uncontrolled development and blocked waterways made it highly prone to flooding.
“This is an example of an untamed settlement. Landslides and disrupted natural waterways worsened the flooding.
“A proper environmental plan addressing drainage, water, and sewage systems is essential to prevent future disasters.”
Muguti highlighted that: “Interfering with natural waterways is a major cause of the flooding. Corrective measures are being enforced to protect lives and property,” he said adding that City of Harare will summon the developer to install proper infrastructure, including roads, sewer, water, and drainage systems.
Meanwhile, authorities have appealed to residents to avoid spreading unverified claims online while urging cooperation as authorities work to prevent recurring floods.
