The government has given environmental minister Valli Moosa the go ahead to ban 4×4 vehicles from beaches.
The government has given environmental minister Valli Moosa the go ahead to ban 4×4 vehicles from beaches.
Chief government spokesman Joel Netshitenzhe said on Wednesday that cabinet had approved the “principles underpinning the regulations pertaining to the use of off-road vehicles along the coastline, which will be promulgated by the minister of environmental affairs and tourism”.
Details of the ban will be finalised on Thursday. The ban will be refined so as not to affect sporting events and to allow official vehicles onto beaches.
It is likely there will be access for official vehicles responding to emergencies, in approved mining activities, for official vehicles within harbours, and for certain other scientific research or marine work.
Moosa has proposed that private vehicles be banned from South African beaches, unless they have permission from the government. He suggested fines of up to R2 000 and the possible impoundment of vehicles.
The proposal caused a stir this year and divided public opinion. Many believed it was a necessary measure but some organisations are not happy about a blanket ban. Angling clubs would like to see a permit system implemented.
A few months ago the SA Federation of Sea Angling and operators in the motor industry felt the plan could have an adverse effect on the motor industry. It said its members owned vehicles valued in excess of R400-million.
"We don’t want hooligans on beaches who want to show off their 4x4s. A permit system is needed to control the type of person allowed with his vehicle," said a spokesman.
Details of the approved ban will be revealed later.
