Magot river could soon be a source of contamination for Klipfontein

THERE’S an old saying about “not soiling one’s own nest” that can be used in reference to those who continue to contaminate rivers and streams in and around Vryheid, be it through ignorance, laziness or even malice.

A growing concern is the Magot River, which flows into Klipfontein Dam. Any pollution or contaminants that find their way into the Magot River will eventually make their way to Klipfontein Dam. Seems logical, doesn’t it? Perhaps not so much to some.

AfriForum Chairman for Vryheid, Andrè van der Walt, recently expressed his concern after reports came through of buses, trucks, taxis and cars utilising the area next to the Magot bridge for dumping rubbish and washing vehicles.

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“It is already looking very bad,” states Van der Walt. “The area is strewn with plastic bags, boxes and even animal waste dumped by trucks. If something is not done now, the situation will inevitably get out of hand and become another source of pollution for Klipfontein.

Manager of Community Services, Mr Archie Khumalo, urges people not to continue with these activities, citing clearly, “It is basic common sense to anyone, even those who live in rural areas, that it is most certainly not good practice to contaminate rivers in this way. Animals drink from these rivers and will ingest the chemicals that are being released into the water. Everybody knows that. Not to mention that it also runs into Klipfontein Dam.”

“This is why there are car washes in town. Pay a bit of money to get your vehicle washed there instead of polluting our environment…”

With regard to the dumping issue, Mr Khumalo confirmed that, according to the Act, the penalties for illegal dumping include a R1000 fine or a period of no less than twenty days in prison.