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3 weeks, no rescue for marooned Chipinge families
9 hrs ago |
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A humanitarian concern is unfolding along the Save River, where 18 villagers from Mahenye in Chipinge South have been stranded for nearly three weeks on Lisungwe Island as water levels continue to rise.
According to Chipinge South MP Clifford Hlatswayo, the situation has become critical, with the group cut off by swelling floodwaters and facing growing risks, including sightings of crocodiles in the surrounding river channels. The villagers had travelled to the island for farming and fishing, a common seasonal practice, but have since been unable to return due to persistent rains and flooding.
Efforts by the Zimbabwe Republic Police Sub-Aqua Unit to reach them have so far been unsuccessful, highlighting the difficulty of accessing the area under current conditions. Authorities say the helicopter that would normally be deployed for such rescues is currently engaged in similar emergency operations elsewhere, leaving responders with limited options.
Chipinge District Development Administrator William Mashava confirmed that the Civil Protection Unit has been notified and is coordinating assistance. However, with no immediate aerial support available, attention has turned to alternative rescue methods, including the possible use of wooden boats from nearby Mozambican communities, though this carries significant risk given the strong currents and rising waters.
Weather conditions are expected to worsen the situation. Provincial meteorological officials have warned of continued rainfall across the region until the end of March, with heavier downpours forecast, increasing the likelihood of further flooding and complicating rescue efforts.
This is not the first time villagers have been stranded on Lisungwe Island this year, underscoring the recurring danger posed by seasonal flooding in the area. While the island offers fertile land and fishing opportunities, it becomes hazardous during the rainy season, leaving those who venture there vulnerable to sudden isolation.
As the situation develops, authorities face mounting pressure to secure a safe and timely evacuation, while communities in flood-prone areas are being urged to remain vigilant.
According to Chipinge South MP Clifford Hlatswayo, the situation has become critical, with the group cut off by swelling floodwaters and facing growing risks, including sightings of crocodiles in the surrounding river channels. The villagers had travelled to the island for farming and fishing, a common seasonal practice, but have since been unable to return due to persistent rains and flooding.
Efforts by the Zimbabwe Republic Police Sub-Aqua Unit to reach them have so far been unsuccessful, highlighting the difficulty of accessing the area under current conditions. Authorities say the helicopter that would normally be deployed for such rescues is currently engaged in similar emergency operations elsewhere, leaving responders with limited options.
Weather conditions are expected to worsen the situation. Provincial meteorological officials have warned of continued rainfall across the region until the end of March, with heavier downpours forecast, increasing the likelihood of further flooding and complicating rescue efforts.
This is not the first time villagers have been stranded on Lisungwe Island this year, underscoring the recurring danger posed by seasonal flooding in the area. While the island offers fertile land and fishing opportunities, it becomes hazardous during the rainy season, leaving those who venture there vulnerable to sudden isolation.
As the situation develops, authorities face mounting pressure to secure a safe and timely evacuation, while communities in flood-prone areas are being urged to remain vigilant.
Source - Mirror
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