At least 14 applicants representing civil society, fishing communities and other affected parties in South Africa have approached the Western Cape High Courts to halt seismic activities by Australian company, Searcher Seismic
The seismic blasting in search of hydrocarbons on the West Coast will have a social, economic and environmental effect, according to papers lodged in the Western Cape High Court.
This is the argument of 14 applicants representing civil society, fishing communities and other interested and affected parties who have approached the courts to halt Australian company Searcher Seismic.
The two-part application was filed on Friday and seeks to urgently interdict the seismic activities as well as declare Minerals and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe’s decision to grant the reconnaissance permit unlawful.
Civil society and fishing communities argued that the effects would be far-reaching, threatening the livelihood of the marginalised and future stock of marine resources.
They further argue that Searcher did not conduct meaningful public participation and have also questioned the environmental authorisation.
They also ask the court to set aside the permit and order consultation be taken with all interested and affected parties.
Read more:
https://www.iol.co.za/weekend-argus/news/fishing-communities-file-court-papers-to-protect-the-west-coast-from-seismic-survey-52512501-40f4-4168-a988-dfa19e1f870f