Three fires have broken out at the Beachwood Mangroves over the past two days.

Although the fires were extinguished and did not threaten nearby infrastructure, the area’s ward councillor, Heinz de Boer, says the incidents form part of an ongoing problem that authorities are continually addressing with relevant stakeholders.

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“The concern is that individuals illegally occupying the bushes are lighting fires to burn copper and other scrap metal. As a result, the eThekwini Fire and Rescue Services Department has had to respond twice — once on Tuesday (May 12) and again on Wednesday,” De Boer said.

He added that the fires are not only destroying vegetation within the environmentally sensitive mangrove area, but are also producing harmful fumes that are causing discomfort to residents, visitors and businesses in the area.

“I am appealing to residents and businesses in Umgeni Park to email me their concerns so that I can compile a comprehensive submission to Durban Metro SAPS and the municipality’s Land Invasions Unit, requesting intervention and the removal of those unlawfully occupying the bushes. While this may not be a permanent solution, action needs to be taken,” he said.

The councillor further noted that eThekwini Municipality by-laws prohibit acts associated with vagrancy, unlawful occupation of public spaces, illegal fires, and activities that create a public nuisance or pose environmental and safety risks.

Residents wishing to raise concerns or submit complaints can email durbanward36@gmail.com.

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