Resort scrambles to keep going after fire
A visitor reportedly made a braai in violation of rules, which then flared up and damaged vast areas of the park.
A fire that gutted vast areas of the Pilanesberg national park and left the resort without most of its housing units has died down.
The huge blaze on September 16 that began in the park raged in the afternoon until late.
A visitor reportedly had made a braai in violation of the rules, which then flared up and damaged key areas of the park.
As a result, the Manyane Resort entrance station suffered great loss and numerous chalets had burnt to the ground, leaving people scrabbling for safety.
On Monday, general manager Stephina Tshehla said most of the resort was badly affected by the fire that had also charred some of the chalets.
“We confirm that the resort lost 29 chalets, and 26 remain unscathed. Because of this devastation, management resolved that bookings from September 18 onwards will be accommodated at Bakgatla resort at the same rate, depending on availability.”
“Alternatively, guests will be given an opportunity to postpone their holiday to later in the year.”
Tshehla said Manyane was unable to accommodate chalet bookings this weekend from September 22 to 25.
“Bakgatla chalets are also fully booked. Our reservations team will be in contact with all guests to advise them to postpone their holiday for a later date, if acceptable.”
Tsehla said Manyane had undertaken the process of cleaning and removing the scorched rubble.
Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (Dedect) spokesperson Jerry Matebesi said no injury was reported and the department was working closely with Manyane.
He said authorities would still investigate the cause of the fire.
North West MEC Virginia Tlhapi said this unfortunate incident happened during Tourism Month, when the province was preparing to commemorate World Tourism Day on September 26 and 27.
“It is equally important to indicate that the fire outbreak happens immediately after the North West government held a successful premier’s investor dinner. The importance of the tourism sector to the economy of the North West cannot be overemphasised.”
She said government would labour hand in glove with Manyane to normalise the situation.
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