AE01537V
A report on a basic cultural heritage assessment for the proposed Eskom Goedetrouw and Ketting Substations and 132kv Lines Project, Limpopo ProvinceSummary
Archaetnos cc was requested by Texture Environmental Consultants to conduct a basic cultural heritage assessment for the proposed ESKOM Goedetrouw and Ketting substations and 132Kv lines project. The development constitutes a substation and power lines. It forms part of a Basic Assessment.
Two areas were investigated for a possible site for the proposed substation. Both however are reasonably large areas and the idea is to place the substation anywhere in this larger boundary. Two possible routes for the power line from the existing Borutho substation to the proposed substation were investigated, each including minor alternatives in certain instances. This is to the north-west of Mokopane, running further northwards to the farm Goedetrouw in the Limpopo Province.
Many farms are included in the survey, but of course only on the possible route corridors surveyed. However, depending on the final decision for the line, not all of these will be affected.
A survey of the available literature was undertaken in order to obtain background information regarding the area. This was followed by the field survey which was conducted according to generally accepted HIA practices, aimed at locating all possible objects, sites and features of cultural significance in the area of the proposed development.
During the survey a number of grave yards and single grave sites were identified. However, it would be possible to prevent the lines from crossing these. It is therefore indicated and needs to be steered clear from. Two other sites of cultural heritage importance were identified. Mitigation measures are proposed.
Once implemented, the development may therefore continue. Recommendations are however made regarding to the landscape in order to avoid features that are a high risk of containing heritage sites, e.g. mountains and villages. From a heritage perspective there are no specific preference for any of the alternative routes or alternative substation sites.
It should also be noted however that the subterranean presence of archaeological and/or historical sites, features or artifacts is always a distinct possibility. Care should therefore be taken when the development commences further that if any of these are discovered, a qualified archaeologist be called in to investigate and that the assessment be amended if necessary.
It is also important to take cognizance that it is the client’s responsibility to do the submission of this report via the SAHRIS System on the SAHRA website. No work on site may commence before receiving the necessary comments from SAHRA.
Report by
Dr. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)