South African National Parks (SANParks) has been executing its Disaster Recovery Plan for Farleigh and Beervlei areas that were affected by the fires in the Garden Route National Park.
During the emergency evacuation process, affected people were accommodated at the Ebb & Flow Rest Camp (Wilderness) and the Sedgefield community hall.
“Last week, people were moved to a central venue in Sedgefield (Pine Lake Marina). It was an interim measure to unite the Farleigh and Beervlei communities. It also allowed them to mourn together,” says Area Manager for Wilderness, Sandra Taljaard.
Stakeholders working together on Garden Route National Park fires
Various stakeholders have come together to form a workstream. It is tasked with implementing a medium to long-term plan. It comprises of SANParks, the Knysna Municipality, Eden District Municipality, Department of Human Settlements, Department of Rural Development and Land Reform.
As a result, a transition camp that will house survivors is planned for the medium term.
“Affected people from Farleigh and Beervlei staff houses include current SANParks staff. There are also those inherited from the Department of Forestry and private dwellers. We’re ensuring that we give support and housing to all community members,” continues Taljaard.
SANParks also thanked Pine Lake Marina for discounted interim accommodation. It said all remaining costs will be absorbed by SANParks through its insurance company.
