Recent floods that have affected large parts of the Vhembe District have cut off the rural village of Tshapasha near Dzimauli from neighbouring Tshibvumo village towards Harambuda, severely disrupting daily life and access to essential services.
The damage has made teaching and learning difficult, as buses and taxis are unable to reach the area. Commuters have also been left stranded, with no alternative routes available.
Standing near the section of road washed away by floodwater, Tshapasha traditional leader Vhamusanda Nthatheni Lambani said the situation was deeply frustrating as heavy rains continued.
Lambani said the affected road was the only route linking villages from Tshilamba to Dzimauli in Harambuda. Being cut off, he said, meant there was no access to public transport, bread deliveries or other basic services. Motorists were also unable to travel through the area.
He added that the disruption had affected traditional leadership activities, including the regular Friday meetings of traditional leaders at the Rambuda Tribal Council, where disputes and community challenges are discussed.
Lambani appealed to community members to work together to repair the damaged roads themselves as a temporary measure to restore access to the area.