Kempton Park SPCA and Ekurhuleni Metro were back in the Johannesburg High Court today to fight the metro’s decision to host a pyrotechnics show at the new year’s extravaganza at Dries Niemandt Park on Saturday night.
According to ward councillor Simon Lapping the two parties came to an agreement that only an electronic lazer light display will be hosted at the event at midnight.
No fireworks or pyrotechnics will be allowed.
Kempton Park SPCA obtained an interdict in the Johannesburg High Court on Thursday morning, forbidding the discharge of fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
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The society, however, decided to return to court today after the metro announced in a new statement issued yesterday that it never intended to set off fireworks but were only planning a pyrotechnics display.
After the judge ordered the metro to also be present in court this afternoon, an agreement was reached.
In a statement issued by the metro on Thursday they said pyrotechnics was classified as staging theatrical effects such as stage fountains, mines, comets and stadium pyro. The decibel (DB) rating of pyrotechnics is below 90 DB, which isn’t louder than the normal PA systems at events.
Meanwhile, residents took to social media congratulating Kempton Park SPCA for obtaining an interdict against the metro.
The NSPCA also commended Kempton Park SPCA for its swift action and for working diligently for the benefit of animals.
“Fireworks can have a devastating effect on all animals. We urge the public to consider the consequences of setting off fireworks and to keep in mind that this form of entertainment is to the detriment of all animals, domesticated and wild,” The NSPCA said.
The NSPCA also reminded members of the public to keep their animals safe over this time. “Ensure that your pets have identification and that they are kept in a secure and comfortable environment.”
