Toyota Files R6.5 Billion Lawsuit Against KZN Government, Transnet, EThekwini Over 2022 Flood Damages

Toyota South Africa Motors' insurer, Tokio Marine, has filed a R6.5 billion lawsuit against Transnet, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport, and the eThekwini Municipality for damages caused by the April 2022 floods that severely affected Toyota's Prospecton plant. The claim alleges that the defendants failed to maintain key flood control infrastructure, including the Umlaas Canal owned by Transnet, the diversion berm managed by the Department of Transport, and the stormwater system overseen by eThekwini Municipality, leading to extensive flooding and damage. The lawsuit demands over R4 billion for repair and reinstatement of the plant and R2 billion for lost business due to the interruption. Toyota has clarified that it is not directly funding or benefiting from the insurer’s legal action, which is a subrogated recovery claim made after the insurance payout. All three defendants have entered appearances to defend themselves in court. The case highlights concerns about infrastructure maintenance responsibilities and accountability for flood damage in the region.