By Akani Nkuna
Kruger National Park recorded a 41% decline in guest entries between 9 and 19 January as a result of widespread flood damage and closed camps, Forestry, Fisheries and Environment minister Willie Aucamp said on Thursday.
Speaking at a press briefing in Cape Town, Aucamp said the damage to the park was estimated to be “hundreds of millions” of rands.
ALSO READ: Memorial service today for learners who died in horror Vanderbijlpark crash
“Despite this devastation to infrastructure and operations, the most important highlight is that no lives were lost,” he said.
“SANParks’ highly effective early warning systems and the swift, coordinated response of park management and emergency services, means that all guests and staff were safely evacuated.”
Aucamp said the floods caused extensive damage to staff villages and tourist accommodation, forcing the closure of 15 camps. Access to parts of the park has been limited to ensure
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Start your free trial today.
Start your FREE trial nowNeed help? molokom@insideeducation.co.za
