SA vehicle beach ban to stay
2012-07-17 13:11
BAN ON BEACH DRIVING: SA's beach driving prohibition is here to stay, since its implementation the coastal ecology of kwaZulu-Natal has improved, according to environmental minister Edna Molewa.
In 2002 the government infuriated off-road enthusiasts by implementing a ban on driving on South Africa's beaches.
At the time, the ban added negative connotations to 4x4 owners by creating the impression they were scoundrels.
Since then the ban has remained in effect though 4x4 clubs around SA have appealed many times.
POSITIVE EFFECT
A ban on driving vehicles on beaches will not be reconsidered, says water and environmental affairs minister Edna Molewa.
In response to questions by the Democratic Alliance, Molewa said: "Neither the prohibition nor the restriction of the recreational use of vehicles is being reconsidered due to the positive impact it is having on the ecology of the South African coastal zone."
Molewa said there had been an improvement in the ecology of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, due to the prohibition on driving for recreation,
Exceptions to the vehicle ban include fishing competitions, tourism events and scientific research.
Research is being conducted in Cape Vidal to determine if the fish population, targeted by shore fishermen, had recovered.
Do you think the ban should be lifted or do you agree with Molewa's insistance that it should remain in effect? Share your thoughts in our Readers' Comments section below.
