NEW: EMA fines 226 farmers
Source: NEW: EMA fines 226 farmers | Sunday Mail (Local News)
Online Reporter
THE Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has fined over 226 farmers for failing to put in place standard fireguards and for starting fires that caused extensive damage to the environment and property.
The agency also served 4 731 environmental protection orders to farmers before the onset of the veld fire season, reminding them to construct standard fireguards around their properties.
It is believed that lack of standard fireguards is one of the major reasons for increased losses to veld fires.
Over the past week, EMA’s education and awareness campaigns have been targeting the travelling public at roadblocks along major highways.
For example, motorists are being encouraged to use ash trays in their cars to avoid setting off veld fires that have the potential not only to destroy the environment but also cause road traffic accidents due to poor visibility.