The chairperson of the Otjozondjupa Regional Council, Marlyn Mbakera, has said Otjiwarongo's blocked drainage system needs to be attended to while there is a need to construct another bridge.

Her remarks follow the flooding of the town recently after heavy rains.

With no proper drainage system in place in Otjiwarongo, the roads fill up with water when it rains heavily.

Pedestrians, including school-going children, have no choice but to take off their shoes to cross the roads with flowing water like river streams.

The video that caught the nation's attention included children passing a road filled with water to knee length, while the younger ones held on to the older learners to avoid being washed away by water.

Talking to nbc News, Chairperson of the Otjozondjupa Regional Council Marlyn Mbakera said the drainage systems need to be attended to as a matter of urgency while another bridge needs to be constructed.

She also urged school learners to remain in class or on school grounds for the water to subside before they go home.

Parents should play their part by talking to their children about the dangers that come with crossing heavily flooded areas.

Mbakera, however, commended the Otjiwarongo Municipality for constructing the Kasikili bridge in the informal area, which has eased problems with impassable crossings.