It is alleged that an Eskom transformer was the root cause of the fire.

The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is reiterating its call to all land users and farmers to continue practicing precautionary measures to help in preventing veld fires.

An assessment will be done as soon as possible to ascertain if there are any human injuries, loss of lives or livestock that have died.  The priority must be to reduce the risk of veld fires as well as preparedness to combat any fires that might occur.

Annually veld fires result in disastrous loss of natural grazing land, animals and properties while in some instances it leads to loss of human life.

The Department is making a plea to farmers, farm dwellers and motorists to continue acting wisely when dealing with open fires and when operating machinery or smoking.

These sporadic fires in the main are caused by the aridness of grass and shrub as well as prevailing winds. The dryness of the vegetation coupled with the effect of winds create perfect conditions for runaway veld fires.

Veld Fires are a serious threat to the agricultural sector, and land users are urged to continue practising safe risk reduction measures. The department is closely monitoring the situation.

Statement supplied by: Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development