The City of Harare has issued a strong warning to property owners to comply with building regulations on the provision of weep holes on boundary and mass retaining walls, amid increased flooding risks linked to above-normal rainfall being experienced across the country.
In a public notice, the local authority said all boundary walls and mass retaining walls must be fitted with a minimum of four 100mm diameter weep pipes at ground level, positioned in the direction of the natural flow of rainwater.
“All boundary walls and mass retaining walls should be fitted with a minimum of four 100mm diameter pipes at ground level in the direction of the natural flow of rainwater,” the City of Harare said in the notice, citing provisions of the Model Building By-laws (1977) and the Zimbabwe Roads Act (Chapter 13:18).
The council warned that failure to comply with the regulations constitutes a criminal offence.
“It is an offence for any person to build or erect a boundary wall or retaining wall without council approval. It is also against the law to block the natural flow of rainwater or to close neighbours’ weep holes,” the city said.
The municipality said it would not hesitate to act against offenders, warning that hefty penalties would be imposed and that, in some cases, the city would enforce compliance through demolition, removal or adjustment of non-compliant walls.
The warning comes at a time when Zimbabwe is experiencing increased rainfall, with several parts of the country recording flooding that has resulted in loss of life and displacement of communities.
Authorities say some of the fatalities have occurred as people attempt to cross flooded rivers and streams.
Meanwhile, the City of Harare said the capital remains under threat of flooding due to persistent rains and has activated preparedness measures in collaboration with the Department of Civil Protection.
“The City of Harare continues to receive above-normal rains and all areas in and around the city remain under threat of floods,” the council said.
As part of its emergency response, the city has designated several evacuation centres to accommodate residents in the event of flooding.
These include Magamba Hall, Kuwadzana Hall, Tafara Hall, Tariro Youth Centre in Hopley and Stoneridge, Budiriro Community Centre, Waterfalls Hall, Mufakose Area J Community Centre, Glen Norah A Hall, Glen Norah Community Hall Centre 2, City Sports Centre, Mai Musodzi Hall, Zimbabwe Hall, and Rufaro Stadium.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and to heed early warning messages, particularly during heavy rains.
“Members of the public are advised to avoid crossing flooded rivers and streams and to contact emergency services when in need of assistance,” the city said.
Emergency services can be reached on +263 24 2772375, +263 24 2761669, +263 24 2783987, +263 24 2783982, +263 24 2772376, and +263 24 2783984.
Authorities have reiterated that compliance with building regulations is critical in reducing flood-related risks, warning that blocked drainage systems and non-compliant walls worsen flooding and pose a danger to lives and property.
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Story by Jeremiah Gora
