Pretoria: Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille says the precautionary evacuation of tourists at the Kruger National Park, due to ongoing heavy rainfall, will ensure the safety and well-being of its visitors and staff members. In a statement on Thursday, the Minister expressed her solidarity with tourists affected by the flooding in the park, which resulted in the precautionary evacuation of visitors from affected areas.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister emphasised that the situation has been distressing for tourists whose travel plans were disrupted and extended her gratitude for their cooperation, patience, and understanding during the evacuation process. She confirmed that South African National Parks (SANParks), along with emergency services and relevant authorities, acted swiftly and professionally to manage the situation which is under control.
The Minister highlighted that SANParks has established emergency protocols, ensuring all necessary safety measures were implemented efficiently and without any loss of life. She urged all travellers to adhere to the safety measures communicated by SANParks.
Continuous assessments are being conducted, and access to affected areas of the park will only be reopened once conditions are confirmed to be safe. The Minister reassured both domestic and international travellers that South Africa remains a safe and welcoming destination.
She also expressed her gratitude towards tourism stakeholders, including the private sector, for their assistance with alternative accommodation, and acknowledged the cooperation and support of park staff and surrounding communities during this period.
For any update on the situation, contact SANParks 24-hour emergency call centre on +27(0)13 735 4363 and WhatsApp +27(0)76 801 9679.