07 Oct 2014

Veld fires that have erupted in the Okavango Sub-district are posing a danger to the world famous Gchwihaba caves.

The Assistant District Commissioner for Okavango Sub-district, Mr Thabang Dikatlholo said the veld fires started from Nokaneng and were approaching Gchwihaba. Speaking in an interview, Mr Dikatlholo said the situation was currently controllable.

He said the fires were widespread and changing direction because of the wind. Mr Dikatlholo noted that the veld fires started on September 8, and that they have been reported in different villages of Qangwa, Nokaneng, Gumare, Chukumuchu, Nxaunxau and Tsodilo.

He said they suspect that the veld fire between Qangwa and Nxaunxau originate from Namibia, adding that they have burnt down three houses. Mr Dikatlholo said a farmer in Nxaunxau has reported that his irrigation system, that costs around P47 000, has been burnt by the fire.

In Chukumuchu, Mr Dikatlholo said they were doing all they can to ensure that they control the fire, as it is not far from Tsodilo Hills, which is a World Heritage Site.

He said in Nxaunxau, the fire has affected vasts amount of vegetation. He urged the public to be cautious of the fires. Ends