A project to remove 312 trees is in the pipeline of the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ).
Media relations assistant for JCPZ, Noeleen Mattera shared that the custodians responsible for greening, conservation and preservation of public open spaces in Joburg, would remove the trees along the Delta-Orlando 88kilovolt (kV) power servitude along the Braamfontein Spruit in the Parkhurst area.
“JCPZ does not condone the removal of trees in the city as trees are protected by strict open space by-laws, however, this exercise is necessary for the safety and well-being of the residents of Parkhurst,” Mattera said.
JCPZ further said the trees stand between 10 to 15m high and are currently encroaching on and around the 88kV overhead powerlines, resulting in increasing power outages in the area. The utility said failure to remove these trees would subsequently damage City Power’s infrastructure such as the substation and transformer alongside private properties.
The trees have also become a source of earthing for the powerlines and failure to remove these trees would result in the power supply returning to the ground which could cause potential fires of dry shrubs and grass, reoccurring power outages and possible fatalities.
“City Parks and Zoo values its green canopy as trees are vital to our environment and they beautify the city. JCPZ would like to reassure residents that the maintenance and management of trees in the city of Johannesburg is continuously prioritised.”
City Parks said the project would be executed in two phases. The first phase is to take about three to five weeks. Residents in the affected area would be kept updated.
During arbour month and in the new financial year, JCPZ will be planting 500 trees in the region.
Joburg is one of the most densely populated cities, the abundance of indigenous trees combat and reduce the effects of climate change as they not only absorb air pollutants but provide clean oxygen. Trees promote a sense of tranquillity and connectedness to nature, especially in residential areas and metropolises.
On September 28, the utility said the project was on hold as City Power needed time to inform residents of the power isolation.
City Power was contacted on September 28 and had not yet given their input at the time of going to press.
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