The Hartbeespoort Marine Law Enforcement Unit issued a strict warning that no boating is allowed on the Hartbeespoort Dam after dark.
This follows a number of recent complaints about noise and lights from boats on the dam at night.
The Hartbeespoort Marine Law Enforcement Unit was appointed in November last year by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to ensure safety at the dam. The unit is the first of its kind at Hartbeespoort Dam. “The aim of the unit is to enforce safe and legal boating. The unit has the authority to check the credentials of skippers, boats and landing sites, issue infringements and detain water users if a crime is committed. The unit works closely with the police,” said Arthur Crewe who heads the unit. The unit does random safety checks on boats and equipment and act on illegal transgressions such as alcohol abuse and reckless behaviour on the dam.
“There have been a number of complaints about boats being on the water after dark. SAMSA laws and those of the Department of Water and Sanitation clearly state that no boats are allowed on the water after 20:00 and before 05:00. This is a transgression of DWS regulations. The unit will act against transgressors,” he said.
Crewe said most boaters on the dam comply with the rules but there have been incidents where boat operators have refused to accept the regulations. “The police’s Waterwing is supporting the unit and will assist in the enforcement of the regulations.”
The Hartbeespoort Marine Law Enforcement Unit can be contacted at 012 004 1888.