2nd January 2024
To: The Council Secretary
Siavonga District Council
Siavonga
PETITION: NOISE POLLUTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE FROM FISHING RIGS ON LAKE KARIBA
Dear Council Secretary,
We, the undersigned residents, lodge, and hotel owners of Siavonga, are writing to express our deep concern over the persistent noise pollution and environmental damage caused by fishing rigs operating on Lake Kariba, specifically along the lakefront from Eagles Rest to Banana Island and Sandy Beach.
For twenty days each month, the unceasing noise from hundreds of these rigs, operating from 6 pm to 6 am, severely disrupts the tranquillity of our area. This constant disturbance significantly hinders the ability of both tourists and residents to enjoy the outdoors.
Moreover, these rigs, often operating without proper waste management facilities, are discharging effluents directly into Lake Kariba. This practice not only poses a threat to the environment but also endangers public health. Despite the clear guidelines in the Public Health Act and the Environment Protection and Pollution Control Act against such practices, there has been a noticeable lack of enforcement from the Siavonga District Council.
Additionally, the Fisheries Department’s failure to designate no-go areas for fishing rigs along the lake shores exacerbates the issue of noise pollution and environmental damage. We observe with concern that the number of rigs on the lake far exceeds the recommended limit of 225, adding to the severity of the situation.
We urgently demand immediate action from the Siavonga District Council and all relevant agencies and departments. This action should include enforcing existing legislation, designating no-go areas for fishing rigs to mitigate noise pollution, and ensuring adherence to environmental standards, including responsible waste disposal practices.
The continued inaction by the Council, despite nearly a decade of complaints, not only shows a disregard for established laws but also poses a significant threat to the wellbeing of residents, tourists, and the delicate ecosystem of Lake Kariba. Our pleas for intervention have been consistently ignored, a neglect that we find intolerable.
We strongly urge the authorities to take swift and decisive measures to address these issues. Should there be no response, we reserve the right to seek legal recourse to ensure compliance with the law and to hold accountable those responsible for neglecting their duty to enforce all relevant provisions of the applicable laws and regulations.
SIGNED BY