By Tonderai Saharo
Some Runyararo West residents face the risk of flooding as Masvingo City Council is failing to access $300 000 to relocate them to safer areas.
Council said it also requires the money for water drainage construction and management.
Local residents, allocated stands on wetlands, have expressed serious concerns about the delays.
Masvingo Council Director for Housing and Social Services Simbarashe Mandishona was quoted by Business Week explaining the issue.
“We need a budget of about US$300 000 in order to construct 10 houses for the critically affected families.
“Our major problem is that we are apparently facing some financial challenges,” he said.
Currently, the area is experiencing heavy flooding due to its location at the confluence of two streams.
In a bid to alleviate the situation Council has widened the nearby stream to divert runoff during floods.
The Council program to relocate those affected has repeatedly failed to take-off due to funding constraints.
Council Mayor Alec Tabe has acknowledged the challenge.
He has since promised to engage relevant government ministries to find a lasting solution .
