NATIONAL NEWS - A white rhino bull, recently relocated to the Kruger National Park, made an unexpected appearance near the Paul Kruger Gate after being missing for some time.
Lowvelder reports that SANParks spokesperson JP Louw confirmed the animal has been living near the Paul Kruger Gate, with rangers raising concern after the Sabie River swelled drastically during heavy rainfall.
The bull was later spotted on the bridge in distress, prompting park staff to stop traffic so that the rhino could be redirected to safety.
Rhino safely relocated
According to Louw, the bull made his way onto the bridge and was moved by the park’s Veterinary Wildlife Services unit to a safer area.
Recent downpours in the region are affecting wildlife and human settlements alike.
No evacuation of Letaba and Mopani camps
Meanwhile, Letaba Herald reports that social media posts claiming Letaba and Mopani camps have been evacuated are not true.
According to KNP general manager in communication and marketing Reynold Thakhuli, only guests booked in chalets facing the river at Letaba Camp were moved to higher-ground chalets.
Yesterday, SANParks released a statement confirming the closure of Mopani Restaurant as a precautionary measure. The statement added that Crocodile Bridge Gate is being monitored and will only be closed if the Crocodile River bridge becomes flooded.
Gate closures and road conditions
Pafuri Gate remains closed due to flooding and unsafe conditions, while Punda Maria Gate is also closed, meaning the only access to the northern region of the park is via Phalaborwa Gate.
All roads leading from Lower Sabie to Skukuza and Satara are closed. SANParks urges guests to adhere strictly to all road closures, no-entry signs and instructions from park officials.
Under no circumstances should barricades, logs or safety barriers be removed, as these are in place to prevent access to flooded or structurally compromised areas.
SANParks spokesperson JP Louw said the safety of guests, staff and surrounding communities remains the organisation’s highest priority.
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