City explains purpose of Rietvlei burn following August scare

The recent controlled burn at Rietvlei Nature Reserve on October 8 has sparked concern and questions among Pretoria residents, especially in light of the intense and unexpected runaway fire that scorched the reserve on August 24.

While both events were managed under very different circumstances, public anxiety around fire management, safety, and environmental impact has become a talking point in the city.

In response to these concerns, metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo addressed the situation, offering clarity about the rationale behind the latest burn and reassurance about the metro’s preparedness and strategy.

He pointed out that safety is always the top priority and every controlled burn begins with a detailed risk assessment that looks at factors such as vegetation density, weather forecasts, terrain and proximity to infrastructure or communities.

Burns can only occur once a permit is issued by the metro’s Emergency Services, which are informed of the timing and are available to assist if needed.

Firebreaks are also maintained throughout winter to prevent any fires from spreading beyond the reserve’s boundaries.

“The controlled burn conducted on October 8 was part of our ongoing ecological management plan,” Mashigo explained.

“These burns are carefully planned, permitted, and executed under strict supervision to reduce the fuel load and prevent unplanned fires in the future, like the one we experienced in August.”

That August blaze, believed to have been possibly started by a lightning strike, rapidly escalated due to high winds and dry conditions.

Residents and visitors to Rietvlei were stunned by the extent of the runaway fire, and news of its impact quickly spread through social media and community groups.

But amid the smoke and scorched earth, a story of resilience, both human and natural, emerged.

Peter Ruddle from Friends of Rietvlei, who has been closely involved in the reserve’s post-fire recovery, reflected on that chaotic day and the aftermath.

“We are profoundly grateful to the staff and community’s extraordinary efforts in combating the runaway fire that swept through the reserve,” Ruddle said.

“Their unwavering courage and tireless dedication, enduring past midnight, preserved Island View Hide from destruction and safeguarded the Coffee Shop and Finfoot Hide from the flames.”

Despite the damage sustained in the August runaway fire, including the loss of the capture boma and the thatched roof at Island View toilet, no buildings or major infrastructure were destroyed, and wildlife emerged largely unharmed.

Now, less than two months later, after the runaway fire as well as the controlled burn, nature is already bouncing back.

This regenerative ability is one reason why fire, when controlled, plays a vital role in veld management. Mashigo emphasised that ecological burns help stimulate new plant growth, control invasive species, and support biodiversity.

“While it may seem alarming to see flames in a reserve, these burns are done with precision to ensure minimal risk and maximum ecological benefit,” he said.

Residents, however, still had questions. Why so soon after the August fire? Was the reserve ready? And what measures were in place to prevent another runaway event?

Mashigo acknowledged the concerns, stating, “We understand the sensitivity around any fire in the reserve so soon after the August incident.

“However, the October 8 burn was executed under optimal weather conditions and only after a thorough safety assessment.

“Our teams were fully mobilised, with firefighting equipment and personnel on standby throughout the operation.”

He pointed out that the regular security team remains on duty before, during, and after any controlled burn.

Their role is to ensure the safety of both people and property within the reserve. While the ecological team focuses on fire control, security personnel continue to patrol and monitor access as usual.

“The metro’s nature reserve staff are qualified environmental specialists with extensive experience in veld management. They have successfully carried out controlled burns for many years.

“The Friends of Rietvlei also play a supportive role, mainly assisting with maintenance of firefighting equipment and other resources needed during these operations,” said Mashigo.

The readiness around controlled burns stands in stark contrast to the conditions of accidental fires, such as the one on August 24, when the runaway fire, unplanned and unpredictable, moved quickly through the dry grassland.

While Island View Hide and associated facilities were damaged in the August fire, repairs have moved quickly thanks to community support.

Gratitude was also extended to those who helped make the repairs possible.

“A very big thank you to Good Morning Angels and Jacaranda FM for their generous donation, which made these upgrades possible. Without their support, we would not have been able to do this for our visitors,” said Ruddle.

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