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Post Reporter
VELD fires have become a serious problem with huge negative socio-economic and environmental impact on communities, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has said.
The agency expressed concern over the number of lives being lost in wild infernos.
Recently, 10 people were burnt to death, some beyond recognition, when they were trapped in a mountainous area while fighting a raging veld fire at a farm in Esigodini Matabeleland South Province.
EMA called for collective efforts among stakeholders and vigilance in communities to combat the scourge.
“The rate at which human life is being lost in veld fires is worrying. Let us be responsible by playing our part in combating the scourge. It is important to put up standard fireguards which are at least nine metres wide around properties. Reducing biomas (fuel load) by hay baling and thatch grass combing helps in reducing the danger of veld fires,” said EMA.
EMA urged people to report all fire cases to the agency, traditional leaders, police, Forestry Commission and rural district councils.
Online Reporter