TAKING a trip to see migrating turtles nesting and their hatchlings entering the sea has become a source of controversy.
The Zululand Observer has followed-up a complaint from a recent visitor to this wonderful spectacle of nature, who says authorities have made the experience an unpleasant one.
‘During a recent turtle tour to Kosi Bay, I discovered, much to my dismay, that accessing the tour had changed for the worse,’ said the complainant.
‘Previously, transfer to Bhanga Nek beach was via a boat trip across Third Lake, an efficient, comfortable 30 minute transfer.
‘But at the end of November 2013, this practice was summarily banned by the authorities – one month into the turtle season.
‘From information gleaned, either the Isimangaliso Wetland Park Authority or Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife initiated the boat ban, and access to a turtle tour is now via a 90-minute overland journey, each way.’
He further complained that this journey is undertaken on ‘an atrocious track’, leaving one somewhat battered on arrival at the beach, and more so back at one’s accommodation.
‘I witnessed three vehicles delivering clients to the beach, and most clients complained about the harshness of the drive.
‘Some went further to state they would not recommend the tour because of the drive.
‘This will have an adverse effect on tourism to the area in general, and in particular the livelihoods of the community guides, who offer an outstanding tour, and are reliant on a four-month turtle season for their annual income.
‘In an area where minimal employment opportunities exist, and where the authorities claim to be promoting tourism as a means of job creation, the ban on transfers across the lake is a hugely retrogressive step.’
Reaction
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority (iWPA) denied that the ban on boats is a recent ruling.
‘Boating at night on Lake Nhlanga is not a permissible activity,’ said an iWPA spokesperson.
‘The so-called ‘new ruling/summary ban’ is in fact a long standing Park rule – in place for reasons including safety and security.
‘It was brought to conservation managers’ attention by several operators in the area that people were illegally undertaking this activity and it has been necessary for managers to increase enforcement in the area.
‘The tour guides referred to are licenced and trained by iSimangaliso, who have supported them over the past 10 years or more and will continue to do so.
‘This season has been particularly busy and their trade has grown with each consecutive season.’
