08 Feb 2021

The heavy downpours experienced over the weekend resulted in the closure of Selebi Phikwe-Sefhophe road due to the overflowing Lebala River.

Officer Commanding District No. 10, Senior Superintendent Bonosi Molapisi said in an interview that the water level started rising over the weekend.

He added that this did not only affect the motorists travelling to and from Sefhophe and Bobonong, but also affected some parts of Sefhophe, which experienced a spill-over from the overflowing Lebala River.

Senior Superintendent Molapisi said the police and the Botswana Defence Force personnel were working together to ensure the safety of motorists and community members, adding that so far no lives had been lost. 

He also warned farmers at Lebala cattlepost to be on alert and wait for the water subside as it was currently dangerous to cross the said road. Senior Superintendent Molapisi further stated that Sefhophe- Bobonong road had also been temporarily closed as the water covered that area.

He said once the water subsided the police and the soldiers would  inspect the affected roads for safety reasons prior to opening.

He also warned farmers in cattleposts situated downstream, particularly in the Bobirwa area, to be on alert and evacuate before water reaches them.

Meanwhile, the road to Selebi Phikwe Airport was also immersed in water, making it difficult to access the airport and the Department of Meteorological Services premises. However, Senior Superintendent Molapisi said the water did not find way into the airport. Ends