You think the traffic bothers you

For more than 20 years North West villager Frans Nkome and his family lived in peace until road construction turned their home into a deathtrap and swamp in 2006.

Excavations for a road metres away caused at least 27 gaping cracks on the retired bus driver's house in Swartdam, in North West.

The road's three stormwater canals flood his yard, which can remain water-logged for up to a month, depending on the rain.

Nkome, 61, turned to the public protector.

It took the public protector's office eight years to get the Department of Public Works and Roads to admit liability for Nkome's suffering.

"My argument was that my three neighbours were relocated but I was left to suffer. I do not give up," he said.

The department yesterday agreed to pay Nkome R200000 as a settlement on condition that he relocates to another stand.

Nkome said his new house would cost him R190 000.

"I have already found a place, got the quotation and a builder. I am moving out as soon as I get the money, " he said.