NORTH Durban residents have reacted angrily to the lack of by-law enforcement with regards to fireworks being let off outside the designated time on New Year’s eve. Just a day before New Year celebrations, the City issued a statement saying fireworks could be set off from 11.45pm on December 31 until 12.15am on New Year’s day.
However there were conditions that residents needed to adhere to. Low-hazard fireworks, such as fountains, lawn lights and sparkles were allowed to be lit in private homes. Fireworks such as air bombs, supersonic bangs, sound shells, fountain whistles and screeches were prohibited as they cause a disturbance and are a nuisance to neighbours.
Redhill resident, Farrah Khan Maharajh said several residents did not adhere to the designated times.
“I was prepared for the designated hours. But for parts of Durban North and Redhill, the fireworks began as early as 3pm. It really sounded like a warzone out there, the intensity of this year’s celebrations was too much. People just didn’t adhere to the designated times. Even though I took precautions and continued to medicate my cats as the firework displays intensified, the extent of the fireworks and the big bangs, that were supposed to be banned, was extremely damaging. Since 1 January I’ve been flooded with photos and emails about missing animals because of the fireworks. Even if you take precautions things can go wrong, animals still get out. They go into a panic and they suffer. It was horrific.
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“I wish we could learn from first world countries. There has been an emergence of low-key, quiet fireworks displays for audiences that want the fanfare of fireworks without the noise disturbance. The softer celebrations mean less stress for noise-sensitive children, veterans, older people, pets and wildlife. South Africa needs to follow suit and enforce the bylaws,” she said.
Other residents also voiced their discontent venting on social media with some suggesting petitions to ban the fireworks.
Another resident, who did not want to be named, said this was the worst New Year’s celebration in recent years.
“This was certainly worst than last year. I can’t believe that many fireworks were let off. It was absolutely horrific especially for my dogs. The sad thing is some of the people letting off fireworks have their own pets. It really is unnecessary. What about the animals, children with autism and those with post-traumatic stress order? How are they supposed to cope?”
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Pet owners are urged to visit the SPCA and local vets if they have lost their pets. At the SPCA, animals are kept for seven days before they are put up for adoption-giving owners time to claim their pets and for the inspectors to ensure that the animals are healthy.
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