BCC to demolish 17 properties in Cowdray Park

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has announced plans to demolish 17 properties in the Hlalani Kuhle/Garikai section of Cowdray Park to make way for a new storm drainage system designed to address chronic flooding in the area. The council's move aims to alleviate the impact of seasonal flooding, which has severely affected properties built on wetlands and floodplains.

However, the announcement has sparked frustration among some residents, who claim they were not officially informed of the plans and have expressed concerns over the lack of communication regarding compensation and relocation options.
Lack of Communication and Growing Anxiety

Mrs. Lynette Khumalo, one of the affected homeowners, shared her frustration at learning about the proposed demolition of her seven-roomed house through informal channels rather than official communication. "We heard through the grapevine that our home is among the properties slated for demolition. Unfortunately, there has been no official communication from the council, and it is unsettling not to know the facts," she said.

Her neighbor, whose house is still under construction, also reportedly found their property on the demolition list. The lack of formal notification has left residents feeling anxious and uncertain about their future.
Calls for Transparency and Compensation

Another affected resident, Mr. Andrew Moyo, emphasized the importance of transparency and clear communication from the council. He called on BCC to clarify how affected residents will be compensated and what relocation options would be available. "Transparency is key. If our houses are to be demolished, the council must clearly explain how we will be compensated. We have children in school, and relocation would mean making arrangements to transfer them," Mr. Moyo said.

Mr. Moyo added that he would welcome relocation, as his property is often submerged during the rainy season, leading to significant property damage. "Flooding is a nightmare for us. The rainy season, which should be a blessing, has become a curse. I've lost property to water damage, so I don't mind moving to a safer area," he shared.
Ongoing Flooding and the Need for Drainage Infrastructure

A Chronicle news crew visited the area on Monday and observed that several homes were already partially submerged after heavy rains on Sunday. Flooding has been a recurring issue in Cowdray Park, particularly for properties built on floodplains and wetlands.

BCC's minutes from its October 10, 2024 meeting revealed that the council had decided to relocate residents of 17 stands to facilitate the construction of the much-needed stormwater drainage system. The project aims to address flooding in the area and provide long-term relief to residents.

According to the council's report, the decision to relocate these 17 stands was part of a broader effort to alleviate flooding issues in Cowdray Park, a problem that has plagued the area for years. The relocation is expected to make space for the installation of stormwater infrastructure that will improve drainage and prevent flooding in the future.
Challenges in Housing Development

The Hlalani Kuhle housing project, which began in 2012, was initially intended to provide roads, sewer systems, and water reticulation for 15,524 stands. Residents were expected to contribute US$50 per month to fund the project, with completion slated for five years. However, due to payment challenges, the project has faced significant delays, with many residents unable to meet their monthly contributions.

Despite the council's efforts to reduce the monthly payment to US$15 per month, financial difficulties have continued to hinder progress, leading to a revised project timeline that now stretches to 16 years. According to council records, only 25 percent of beneficiaries have consistently paid their dues, creating severe cash flow problems and delaying the completion of the housing project.
Urban Flooding and the Need for Change

Urban flooding is a major challenge in many cities in Zimbabwe, especially in densely populated areas like Cowdray Park. The construction of homes in unsuitable areas, such as wetlands, has worsened the flooding problem. As the council works to address these issues, affected residents are urging the government to prioritize communication and support during this transition period.

With the rainy season already underway, residents and the local authority alike are hoping that the new drainage system will provide much-needed relief to Cowdray Park and prevent further property damage caused by flooding. However, the residents' call for clearer communication and compensation remains a priority as the BCC moves forward with its plans.