Mbombela residents demand fireworks ban
Residents of Mbombela have started a petition to demand a total ban on the use and sale of fireworks after several pets died during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
"We are sick and tired of losing our pets on such a useless thing. We demand they change laws so this thing can be prevented from happening when welcoming the new year," said resident Linda Reddy.
In Barberton, a dog impaled itself on a fence and died during the celebrations. The image was shared on social media and has led to the call for a change to the by-laws affecting the use of fireworks.
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According to a public safety notice that the Mbombela local municipality released before New Year’s Eve, fireworks could only be set off in the following wards: 7, 21, 41, 06, 33, 36, 38 and 45. Barberton, wards 41 and 45, was also on the list.
"The municipality must not have specific areas. It must ban fireworks completely. We can’t afford to lose our pets over this again. Why can’t they see that this problem has an effect everywhere?" said Barberton resident Linda Phiri.
Municipality spokesperson Joseph Ngala said the municipality had not been approached regarding the petition. He said, while he thought the petition was a good idea, it was not his place to say whether it should be signed.