By Twink Jones Gadama
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In Mangochi Municipal and District Council, approximately 1,242 households have been displaced by flooding caused by rising water levels from Lake Malawi and the Shire River.
Concerned citizens in the district are pointing fingers at the government, specifically the Natural Water Resources Authority (NRWA), accusing them of intentionally causing the floods in Mangochi and other districts.
The citizens argue that authorities are releasing insufficient amounts of water at the Liwonde Barrage.
Representing the disgruntled members, Wellington Mangulenje expressed their worries to journalists, highlighting the lack of government officials visiting and supporting the affected individuals.
Senior Chief Chowe and Traditional Authority Mapira stood alongside Mangulenje during this statement.
They emphasized their disappointment with the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) for seemingly disregarding their plight.
The group’s demand is for the water flow at Liwonde Barrage to be increased to over 15 centimeters from the current 10 centimeters.
On the other hand, the NWRA maintains that the barrage is operating within its regulated mandate.
Despite the accusations and demands from the citizens, the authority stands firm on their position regarding the management of the water flow.
This situation highlights a growing tension between the affected communities and the government authorities, with concerns over the handling of water resources and flood management strategies.
The displacement of households and the lack of support from officials have further fueled frustrations among the residents of Mangochi.
The ongoing dispute raises questions about accountability, transparency, and effective communication between the government and its citizens in times of crisis.
The authority is yet to respond on the villagers accusations.
