Letters | Saving Albert Falls

For the first time in South Africa, the issue of home slaughtering of livestock has come under renewed scrutiny (The Witness, May 26). In reality, home slaughtering has long been prohibited under municipal bylaws in many areas. The problem has often been a lack of enforcement.

In this regard, eMadlangeni Local Municipality Mayor Lawrence Buthelezi in Utrecht deserves credit for recognising the importance of enforcing bylaws. He believes stricter enforcement will help restore order while protecting the surrounding game reserve environment. The same principle should apply across SA.

On May 27, a message circulated on a local community chat group claiming that a goat and sheep feedlot and abattoir was being established less than 500 metres from the main river flowing into Albert Falls Dam. The message stated: “Saving Albert Falls through impact and action. Did you know?

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A goat and sheep feedlot and abattoir is being established less than 500 metres from the main river entering the dam. Pollution is avoidable.” If the claim is inaccurate, it should be corrected. If it is true, the public deserves clarity about who is behind the project and whether all legal and environmental requirements have been met.

Any development of this nature should comply with municipal bylaws and environmental legislation designed to protect biodiversity, water resources and sensitive ecosystems. Albert Falls Dam is surrounded by conservation areas and game reserves, making environmental compliance especially important. Residents will hope the relevant authorities carefully assess the project and ensure that all environmental and conservation requirements are followed. Anthony Timms Chairperson, Albert Falls Ratepayers Association

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