Flood recovery continues in Garden Route

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Weather conditions across parts of the South African National Parks’ Garden Route National Park(SANParks) have improved, allowing for the phased reopening of several facilities, although recovery and clean-up operations remain underway in affected areas.

In the Tsitsikamma Section, the restaurant and the Mouth Trail, including the suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, have reopened to visitors.

However, major hiking routes, including the Otter Trail, remain closed. Nature’s Valley Rest Camp also remains closed due to ongoing electricity and water supply disruptions.

In the Knysna Section, access difficulties, power outages and debris-clearing operations continue to affect the Diepwalle and Harkerville areas.

Flood-related debris removal operations are also continuing within the Knysna Estuary after several marine species washed ashore. SANParks has urged members of the public not to touch or consume any marine life found along affected areas, warning that some species may be harmful or toxic.

Authorities further warned that navigational channel markers and designated swimming-area buoys in the estuary were displaced during the flooding.

Boaters are advised to exercise caution while navigating the estuary, while swimming in demarcated areas remains prohibited until the buoys are repositioned. Access to the St James public slipway is currently limited, and users are urged to avoid launching vessels until debris has been cleared.

In the Wilderness Section, some facilities have reopened and accommodation remains operational, although recreational and water-based activities are still suspended.

SANParks spokesperson JP Louw said recovery and mop-up operations will continue across the park as conditions stabilise.

Demarcated swimming area markers at the Knysna Heads have shifted.
Photo: SANParks.