By Rachel Mohamed
The Cape Winelands District Municipality’s Fire Services continue to battle an active blaze in the Kogmanskloof mountains above Montagu and Ashton. The fire, which began on Thursday in the veld above Zolani, spread into Cape Nature-managed land and along the mountain ridge.
Speaking to VOC News, the municipality’s spokesperson, Jo-Anne Otto, stated that the fire was ignited on the Ashton side and was a combination of both human and weather-related incidents.
“And then, of course, aggravated by the terribly strong winds experienced at that time and the very dry environment that we are currently experiencing in the Western Cape in general,” said Otto.
The public hospital is located on the hill in the southern part of Montagu, which is currently the area of greatest concern. The fire, which started on the Ashton side, moved to the top of the mountain within the Cape Nature-managed property. This area contains proteas and fynbos, some more than 90 years old, making the vegetation extremely dry and vulnerable.
“While controlled burns are beneficial for fynbos, not all fynbos should burn at once. Ideally, there should be at least 15 years between burns for healthy regeneration.”
Listen to the full interview:
VOC News
Photo: VOCfm
