Ray BandeSenior ReporterFARMING activities in undesignated areas such as mountain slopes and river banks are now a common sight with the recent start of the rainy season in Mutare and other areas around Manicaland, risking adverse repercussions in the face of normal to above normal rainfall expected this season.In recent years, floods were more severe and widespread than historical floods due to a combination of climate change and human factors.Last year’s rainy season was marked with a heavy downpour in the farming town of Chipinge, triggering flooding in shops and houses, even in the Central Business District.A few weeks later, almost similar experiences were witnessed in Mutare where industries in the Nyakamete area had to deal with floods submerging their warehouses and production apartments, let alone roads in Sakubva literally impassable.In his remarks during a full council meeting at the Civic Centre last Friday, Mutare Mayor, Councillor Simon Chabuka said: “It is sad that we are now witnessing ploughing in undesignated areas again. Last season, we experienced some problems on the same matter whereby people were now accusing council of lacking a human heart after slashing some crops planted in undesignated areas.‘They are now almost reaching the peak of Dangamvura Mountain from all directions. If we get above normal rainfall, as envisaged, we are highly likely to face problems with boulders rolling down the slopes into homes,” he said.Councillor Chabuka urged fellow councillors to educate people on the dangers of planting in undesignated areas.“Councillors please relay this message to residents in your wards.
Do not sugar-coat the message in order to curry favour. Let us be honest with people on this matter. They must not plant in areas that are not meant for agricukltural activities,” said Councillor Chabuka.
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