Darryl de Lange of Ballito writes:
KwaZulu-Natal is experiencing a significant loss of its most valuable commodity – topsoil – owing to rampant development of large-scale estates.
As a result, our rivers are now running red with silt.
While the problem of soil surface runoff was previously addressed, it has resurfaced because of the negligence of developers who are more concerned with short-term profit than the conservation of local communities and the environment.
Historically, sugar cane estates in KZN provided schools, accommodation, transportation and job security for most of the year.
But the recent shift towards developing these estates into gated communities has resulted in the loss of valuable topsoil and a lack of conservation measures to prevent soil erosion and runoff.
To ensure sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation, laws and boundaries were put in place to protect topsoil from erosion due to slope and runoff, and conservation farming was introduced.
These measures are no longer being implemented, let alone enforced, and there is no consideration for responsible land use.
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are essential for any development to take place. However, the presence of “preferred” environmental engineers and lenient safety officers on construction sites has created a grey area that allows developers to progress without adequate regulation.
The lack of public awareness and involvement in monitoring these issues has resulted in disastrous consequences for homeowners, tourists, and our ocean.
If we intend to keep the Dolphin Coast as it is and preserve its natural beauty, we must take action to prevent the continued degradation of our soil and waterways.
We must ensure that developers are held accountable, and temporary contour drains are put in place to mitigate water energy and resultant runoff.
Only through responsible development practices and community engagement can we protect our natural heritage and ensure our livelihoods.
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