04-05-2025
Watch: Pinetown pipe burst floods preschool
FAMILIES, parents, friends and residents have pulled together to help clear the damage caused by a burst water pipe at Care Bears Wonderland in Pinetown.
Kristin Smith from the school said she received a call at about 04:00 saying the school is flooded.
'I called my mom and said we need to get to the school.
Also read: Families relive traumatic experiences in the floods
'We got there only to see the devastation that amounts to 20 times worse than the 2022 floods.'
The flooding was caused by a huge pipe that burst in Josiah Gumede Road in the early hours of Sunday morning.
'The water diverted to Leeds Crescent and came down to our school and a few neighbouring houses.'
Smith said the force of the water was undescribable.
'It was just loads, loads and loads of water. Every single classroom and playgrounds have been affected,' said Smith, adding that only the swimming pool was not affected.
'Walls are broken, everything is submerged under the water, and looking at the damage, the school will be closed for the next few days,' said a sad Smith.
Smith estimated that it will cost close to R1m to fix the damage.
The school, which looks after 170 children, will be in need of extra hands and other necessities for the next few days. Anyone who wishes to assist can call 083 714 0723.
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