Wetland Fire in Soekmekaar Threatens Environment and Nearby Properties
Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Services, Cllr. Elizabeth Rahlana, conducted a site visit to assess the fire that has been raging in the wetland area of Ga-Ratsaka.
She was joined by representatives from CDM Emergency Services and Moshate wa Ratsaka at Ga-Ratsaka in the Molemole Local Municipality.
The visit was prompted by community concerns over the fire, which has continued to spread across the wetland area.
The fire, which has been ongoing for several days, is being closely monitored by the Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) Fire Department and emergency services.
According to reports, the flames have been advancing daily, threatening not only the delicate wetland ecosystem but also nearby residential areas.
Local authorities have expressed alarm over the fire’s potential to cause environmental damage and pose a risk to property and human safety.
In response to the escalating situation, the CDM’s Community Disaster Management (CDM) team has initiated preventive measures, including the digging of a trench approximately two meters deep around the affected area.
The trench is intended to serve as a firebreak, preventing the fire from advancing into surrounding lands.
“The situation is being taken very seriously. We are actively working to contain the fire and prevent further spread,” Cllr. Rahlana said during the site visit.
“The wetland is a vital part of our local ecosystem, and we need to protect it, along with the nearby properties, from any damage.”
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To ensure a comprehensive approach to the crisis, local authorities have called in experts from the University of Limpopo and the Council for Geoscience to assist in assessing the fire’s impact and advising on additional strategies.
Both institutions are expected to provide reports in the coming days to help guide the municipality’s response.
CDM Disaster Management and Fire Services teams continue to monitor the area closely.
Emergency response teams remain on standby to escalate their efforts should the fire spread further. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and report any signs of the fire’s expansion.
The municipality has assured the public that all necessary precautions are being taken to mitigate the risks and that residents will be kept informed as the situation develops.