February 2 marks International Wetland Day, and the DA in Ekurhuleni is calling on residents and the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) officials to observe the day, especially at a time where the conservation and protection of our biodiversity is critical.
“Wetlands are nature’s buffer against the debris and filth created by our bourgeoning populations.
“They filter, like the kidneys of the earth, all those harmful pollutants and serve as mitigators against flooding, which is critical in these times of uncertain and severe storms,” explained Clr Jill Humphreys, DA member of the Environmental Resource and Waste Management in Ekurhuleni.
Humphreys stated the Blesbokspruit in Ekurhuleni is considered a wetland of international importance by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, and is globally recognised as one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems; thereby, warranting our protection.
“Sadly, the area is being severely and negatively impacted by the encroachment of informal settlements, illegal dumping, sewage spills, acid mine drainage, water hyacinth, as well as the failure of departments within the metro to carry out their mandate. As a result, the biodiversity of the wetland is under severe threat.”
Humphreys pointed out that local communities, many of whom have expended enormous personal resources trying to keep the contaminants and invaders at bay, revere the site.
“The part played by the CoE is central to the survival of this wonder of nature. The Department of Environmental and Waste Management Services has an enormous duty of oversight, though not only monitoring and managing its own processes, but also coordinating a cross departmental task team that should ensure accountability on those departments that transgress environmental by-laws and contribute to the degradation of the City’s wetlands.
“This magnificent natural heritage site is being threatened by the total lack of interest, not only by the ANC coalition-led CoE, but also the provincial and national bodies that have the duty of protection.
“The DA in Ekurhuleni calls on the relevant authorities, which include the MMC for environmental resource and waste services, alderman Khosi Mabaso, The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the minister of environmental affairs, Barbara Creecy, to pay particular attention to this critical resource and protect our Blesbokspruit, even though it’s a little too late,” said Humphreys.
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