EDITORIAL: Railway carriage reef idea has merit

SAPPHIRE Coast Toti Tourism’s (SCTT) plan to drop several disused railway carriages is a novel way in which to draw more marine tourists to the area.
The plan, which is likely to take several years to come to fruition while environmental authorization is sought, has merit.
Diving, like any tourism activity that is repeated often enough, loses its edge somewhat when one returns to the same scene, time and again. This is likely the case off Umkomaas, despite the international allure of the famed and protected Aliwal Shoal.
The carriage plan could in all likelihood be the kickstart the industry needs.
In recent years there have been other, more environmentally controversial moves afoot, with chumming being one particular practice that has divided the industry and the eco-conscious.
The creation of man-made reefs – and even entire islands – has taken place across the globe. However, serious thought must be given to the potential impact of such a move on the marine eco-system. It is after all, not our turf and any potential threat to the marine life should be prioritised. It is hoped the SCTT proposition is carefully thought through and its potential maximised before it is subjected to the rigours of passing muster with the country’s arduous, but necessary environmental legislation. In practice, the exercise will need to represent a careful balance of ecocological consideration and tourism value.