Pet Dam’s revitalisation draws praise and criticism from locals
Residents claimed the area has long been a location for late-night gatherings characterised by public drinking, littering, and other disturbances.
ERMELO – A recent project to rehabilitate the local Pet Dam has drawn mixed reactions from the community.
While the Msukaligwa Local Municipality and a biodiversity conservation team have restored the dam to a thriving natural habitat, some residents are raising concerns about the area’s reputation for rowdy gatherings whenever an occasion presents itself.
The transformation, which began in May, included cleaning the dam, removing harmful algae, planting trees and flowers, repairing damaged fences and installing benches and waste bins.
Bongi Ka Dube, Gert Sibande District Municipality’s spokesperson, said: “The improvements have already begun to show results. Various bird species, including ducks, have returned to the area, and the ecosystem is showing signs of recovery.”
Highvelder went to the Pet Dam on two occasions, but the gates were locked both times.
Residents have expressed their frustrations, arguing that the renovations encourage disruptive behaviour.
They said the area has long been a hotspot for late-night gatherings marked by public drinking, littering and other disturbances.
Read the complete article in this week’s Highvelder.
