Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
14 June 2025 | 14:45 CAT

Tragedy in Eastern Cape: 49 lives lost, more missing as floods devastate OR Tambo. SAHRC demands urgent climate action, says many deaths were preventable. (Image: OR Tambo District Municipality)

As the Eastern Cape reels from catastrophic flooding, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called on all levels of government and civil society to act urgently and decisively. At least 49 people have died in the O.R. Tambo district alone, and hundreds remain displaced. Among the casualties are four learners, a bus driver, and a conductor who were swept away when their school bus plunged off a flooded bridge.

“This is a devastating situation,” said SAHRC Commissioner Aseza Gungubele in an interview with Radio Islam International. “We urge everyone, government, communities, and civil society—to come forward and ensure that people receive the support they need.”

Gungubele confirmed that four learners are still missing, and the number of fatalities is likely to rise as rescue operations continue. The Commission has deployed teams to assess the humanitarian response and monitor living conditions in temporary shelters. “We’re checking whether those facilities have water, sanitation, and adequate standards where people can reside,” she said.

The Human Rights Commission is also addressing long-term climate resilience. As the country faces escalating climate-related disasters, from floods to drought and coastal erosion the SAHRC is urging proactive governance. “We have established a Section 11 Committee, an expert panel advising us on climate justice and policy,” explained Gungubele. “Seemingly minor issues, like blocked drainage and poor waste management, contribute to such devastation.”

Gungubele stressed that many of the damages are avoidable and pointed to poor land use as a major factor. “Government must ensure that people are not building homes in wetlands or flood-prone zones,” she said. “Environmental planning and enforcement is critical.”

The SAHRC will compile a comprehensive report with formal recommendations to local municipalities, provincial executives, and the national government. “We don’t deliver services, but we hold institutions accountable,” she added. “If necessary, we can escalate to litigation should authorities fail to act on our findings.”

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights of affected communities. As Gungubele noted, “Our mandate is protection, education, and enforcement. And we will do what is necessary to ensure justice for the victims.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Habib Bobat and SAHRC Commissioner Aseza Gungubele.