Authorities in Plettenberg Bay are engaged on a plan to implement security measures to keep away from shark encounters.
READ: Cape City lady dies in shark encounter in Plettenberg Bay
‘The Bitou Municipality, Plett Tourism, NSRI Plett, the Institute of Nice White Analysis and conservation specialists targeted on ocean actions and ocean analysis, have been in conversations since Might 2022 to place collectively a formalised Plett Shark Motion Plan,’ the municipality stated.
Along with the 12 shark chew kits sponsored by NSRI which can be already strategically positioned alongside the principle seashores in Plett, the teams are additionally engaged on a number of WhatsApp platforms that preserve stakeholders knowledgeable of shark exercise within the space.
The Motion Plan approaches the difficulty via three phases.
Stage 1: ‘Shark Sensible’ signage, collateral and public consciousness
- Signage | Personal funding was donated to help the Bitou Municipality with signage that creates consciousness and shark sensible actions which can be targeted on potential sharks alongside the Plett shoreline, each graphically and with textual content. The signage was authorized in mid-September and is presently within the means of being printed. These indicators will likely be erected by the Bitou Municipality ASAP.
- Collateral | Plett Tourism is helping the Bitou Municipality with DL fliers as per the ‘Shark Sensible’ signage content material. These fliers will likely be distributed to the house rental companies, accommodations, visitor homes, lodges and B&Bs late October.
Stage 2: Shark deterrent measures
- The Bitou Municipality authorized the analysis for shark deterrent choices on 31 Might. The analysis will take roughly 18 months +/- earlier than it may be decided if shark deterrent buildings are a viable choice for the Plett shoreline.
READ: The massive query after Plett’s deadly shark assault: Why?
Stage 3: Shark recognizing
- The Bitou Municipality authorized further lifeguards on the principle seashores of Plett throughout high-season occasions and standard public holidays. Further lifeguards will start on 1 October.
- The Bitou Municipality has recognized two potential bodily places for employed Shark Spotters on the Lookout Seaside and Robberg Seaside areas with raised vantage factors. The appointment of bodily shark spotters TBC.
- The Plett Shark Motion Group is presently investigating the prices of two drones, stationary cameras, specialised water-monitoring software program and the appointment of specialized screens who will analyze shark exercise and notify correct authorities for seashore closures.
Image: Unsplash
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