DA requests urgent evaluation of environmental impact of riots

17 July 2021

The DA has written to the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Barbara Creecy, to request that her Department conduct a full evaluation of the environmental impact of the recent riots.

Of particular concern is the impact on KwaZulu-Natal where many hazardous materials have been released into environmentally sensitive areas following the burning and destruction of buildings. It is essential that current and potential future environmental hazards be identified, and that immediate action be taken to address the issues at hand.

Acrid fumes from burning buildings and warehouses are being released as a consequence of the riots and this will undoubtedly impact the health and well-being of surrounding residents.

The devastation has also led to the release of hazardous chemicals into rivers and wetlands. The Umhlanga lagoon appears to have been hit particularly hard after the release of chemicals with many dead fish washing up. This could potentially lead to further impacts on the lives of other animals and people who may consume these dead fish.

It is essential that the Minister act swiftly and decisively in the wake of the riots to avoid any further devastation to the environment.

Issued by Dave Bryant, DA Shadow Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, 17 July 2021