CAPE TOWN - The SANDF has sent 10 000 troops to KZN to assist with disaster relief following flooding, which led to the death of nearly 410 people and the displacement of 30 000 others.
Operation Chariot will see the immediate activation of 5 Battalion Headquarters and 15 Coys or Command Posts, which include the support and engineers.
“The deploying troops will include regulars and reserves, with the reserve capability that is on active call-up and already enlisted at their various reserve units where they are currently registered,” the SANDF said.
“The SA Army will render support as part of Op Chariot in erecting field accommodation, provisioning of fresh water with its water purification systems, and the deployment of electricians for restoring power and plumbers for restoring the water supplies in the areas that have been affected by the floods.
“The SA Army pledges include 31 x 10 000 litre water bunkers, 3 x water provisioning systems, 2 x water points with 1 litre bottled water/plastic sachets, a platoon of electricians and plumbers, 60 x 16x16 tents and bedding for the affected communities.”
The South African Military Health Services (SAMHS) will also provide operational health support in the disaster and medical support, including ambulances.
“Op Chariot Force Structure Elements are deployed to the affected area in support of COGTA/Provincial disaster relief structures with specific disaster relief related tasks as authorised by the PROVJOINTS.
“The assistance of the SANDF is executed under Operation Chariot, which is a registered SANDF operation, where the SANDF provides humanitarian and disaster relief assistance to all South Africans, when and where required.”
Cape Times