Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Tulbagh residents opposed to Eskom’s proposal

By Mandisi Tyulu
14 January 2009

The residents of Tulbagh and Riebeek Valley are opposed to Eskom's proposed construction of a 520km electricity supply line from Victoria West in the Northern Cape to Cape Town, saying it will be a "total and utter disaster.

On the other hand the provincial government of the Western Cape says it supports any initiative that promotes the well being of local communities and the sustainability of the environment.

MEC for Economic Tourism and Environment Garth Strachan says “we do not oppose the construction of an Eskom electricity supply line in the Tulbagh Valley, but want this to happen in an environmentally friendly and economically sustainable manner.”

“We need to achieve a win-win compromise through proper consultation with all role-players, a win-win compromise must be reached where the need to supply power is balanced with the needs of the local community and the conservation of the environment.”

“We have engaged with the local tourism office, which is willing to assist Eskom to find a site for the power supply line that will not be aesthetically disruptive.

We will have further conversations with all role players involved to enable us to find an amicable solution, says Strachan.

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