News

Some consequences of the fire include that Upper Tokai Road remains closed in the interest of the safety of the public. We understand that hikers, cyclist, horse riders and dog walkers are eager to use the area, but there are several trees damaged by the fire that are falling down; as well as embers being swept up by the wind and blown around.

While we are battling to get this fire under control, fire fighters are now dealing with another headache. Another fire in the Cape Point Section of Table Mountain National Park that was contained overnight has flared up again. Two helicopters are currently on site and additional crews have been diverted to the area.

Multiple teams from Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), Dept. of Environmental Affairs – Working on Fire teams as well as the Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) continue to battle the fire. More than 200 flying hours have been logged and the direct cost of trying to contain the fires is currently at R4 million and includes the manpower costs.

In addition, four helicopters, two water bombers and one spotter plane have been up in the air since Sunday trying to contain the fire. Containment remains a challenge as there are still many small areas across the landscape with smouldering logs which can become a threat depending on wind speed and direction. Untrained members of the public has been asked not to volunteer to assist with firefighting efforts as this will put their safety and the safety of trained firefighting officials at risk.

For more information contact the TMNP spokesperson Merle Collins on 072 627 3910 or the National Communications Manager for Wof, Linton Rensburg on 078 508 0990.

Issued by:
South African National Parks (SANParks) Cape Region Communications

Media Enquiries

Merle Collins
Regional Communications Manager: Cape Region*, South African National Parks
Cell: 072 627 3910
Email: [email protected]

*Agulhas, Bontebok, Table Mountain, Tankwa & West Coast National Parks