The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has urged property owners and residents to ensure that weep holes in their boundary walls are open and unobstructed ahead of the rainy season to prevent flooding and water damage.
Acting Town Clerk Tennyson Mpunzi said weep holes, small openings at the base of walls, allow stormwater to drain naturally and reduce the risk of pooling and structural damage.
He warned that blocked weep holes could lead to flooding on private and public property, damage foundations, and create health hazards by attracting mosquitoes.
“Opening weep holes and keeping them clear of debris is a simple but essential step to prevent these issues and to support the city’s drainage system,” Mpunzi said.
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He added that property owners should work with neighbours to inspect shared boundary walls and maintain effective drainage across their communities.
Suburbs that are particularly vulnerable to flash floods during the rainy season include Sizinda, Pumula, Nketa, Emganwini, Nkulumane, and Cowdray Park. Mpunzi reminded residents that Section 78 (2) of the Water Act (Chapter 20:24) requires them to keep weep holes open and functional, with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines or legal action under the Road Act (Chapter 13:18).
Residents experiencing flooding are advised to contact Emergency Services on 993/994 for landlines or 02922 71717-9 and 0781 953 433 for all networks.
“We thank all residents for their cooperation and commitment to maintaining a safe, flood-resilient city,” Mpunzi said.
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