Opposing voices heard at dug-out port meeting
Toti Conservancy hosted a presentation on the proposed dug-out port at Lords and Legends on Monday night, 16 September, which close on 100 people attended.
Professor Sarah Braking, who is currently at the University of KZN, but based at the International Development at the School of Environment and Development at the University of Manchester, teaches politics and development and has done extensive research in African and other countries on developmental issues, particularly with reference to Southern African, presented her review of the economics of the port and expressed concern the existing planning has not provided a sound case for the economic viability of the project.
Desmond D’Sa of the South Durban Environmental Alliance voiced the concerns of the local community and stated its opposition to this proposed development. Afriforum supports the efforts to oppose the port. “The major concern of residents is the negative impact on the community of the Durban South Basin and the environment,” said the conservancy’s deputy chairman, Reverend Andrew Manning.
“D’Sa said the Wentworth and Merebank communities had a long history of suffering as a result of the industrial activities in the area and the lack of concern for the residents shown by all levels of government.”
Programme director of the Durban dug-out port for Transnet’s group planning and sustainability division, Marc Descoins presented on the work being done so far by Transnet for the planning of the port.
He explained the Environmental Impact Assessment process would begin soon and an opportunity for public participation and stakeholder engagement would be part of that process. He said Transnet had engaged in extensive consultation with the public and this would continue.
“The sentiment of the very active group of concerned parties at the meeting was that more consultation was required and the cumulative impacts of the port and the back of port activities should be considered in more detail, as well as alternatives to the dug-out port.
Toti Conservancy will facilitate further stakeholder engagement and devise a plan for an integrated review of all aspects of the process of developing the dug-out port.”
This project will have an impact on Toti whether it proceeds or not, and residents and businesses are encouraged to join the debate and participate in the process of identifying and addressing the issues that will have an impact on their lives.
