KNYSNA NEWS - After a wildfire swept through Bongani, Concordia and Khayalethu on Monday 10 November, destroying several structures and leaving families displaced, Knysna Municipality has reiterated the importance of adhering to controlled-burn regulations.
According to preliminary reports, the fire may have originated from a controlled veldfire north of Khayalethu a few days earlier, which spread rapidly under strong south-easterly winds through dense fynbos, pine and eucalyptus vegetation.
The Knysna Fire Department responded at around 11:09, with teams from the Jood-se-Kamp satellite station arriving within minutes. Despite steep slopes and difficult terrain, firefighters managed to contain the blaze before it spread further into residential areas.
An estimated 14 to 20 structures were destroyed, though no injuries or fatalities were reported.
Nearly 100 firefighting personnel from the Garden Route District Municipality, Plettenberg Bay Fire & Rescue, MTO Kruisfontein, PG Bison, SANParks and the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association assisted in the operation, supported by aerial resources. Gift of the Givers provided supplies to crews and relief to affected families.
While Hornlee residents have expressed sympathy for those affected, many have voiced frustration over the shortage of emergency relief kits, claiming some victims from past fires are still awaiting assistance. Municipal communications officer Christopher Bezuidenhout responded:
"While funding for emergency housing support is limited, provision has been made in the upcoming 2025/26 budget cycle for emergency housing kits to assist affected households where possible."
Controlled-burn permits
The municipality reminded landowners that controlled or prescribed burns may only be conducted with a permit, after inspection and confirmation of trained personnel, firefighting equipment and a detailed burn plan.
Burning is only permitted when the Fire Danger Index is Blue (0 - 20) or Green (21- 45), and never within residential areas.
Landowners must obtain final approval from the fire department and notify neighbouring properties and the local fire protection association before burning. Non-compliance may lead to permit revocation and full liability for any damages.
Knysna Municipality thanked all emergency teams and pledged to strengthen fire prevention, community awareness and disaster readiness efforts ahead of the upcoming fire season.
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