Sossusvlei train off the table

A proposal to build a train as the only access for tourists to Sossusvlei created consternation in March, with many fearing that the natural wonder would be destroyed.

Now Green Earth Environmental Consultants, which completed the environmental impact assessment, says the project will not go ahead because it is not financially or technically feasible and will have a negative impact on the surrounding area. The same applies to the planned tethered hot air balloon, for which another site is being sought, she said.

In March, environment minister Pohamba Shifeta granted Sky Eye Tours & Hospitality the concession rights for the project, on the condition that the Monuments Council consent, that the state-run rest camp operator Namibia Wildlife Resorts be engaged, and that the company be granted an environmental clearance certificate (ECC).

Untouched environment

However, the environmental impact assessment found that the project could prove harmful to the environment in several ways.

According to documents, "it will change the character of the place - that's the biggest concern. It is now a place of untouched natural beauty. This is one of the great attractions and a unique selling point for visitors. Namibia is one of the few countries in the world that still has sites untouched by modern development, and at the same time, they are quite easily accessible," the consultants said.

"Namibia sells itself to tourists who are attracted to the character of Namibia's wilderness and unspoiled beauty. That has become very rare in the world, and if Sossusvlei becomes another ‘Disneyland’, Namibia will lose an important unique selling point."

In addition, the assessment found the area needs to be protected as a Unesco natural heritage site.

Ripple impact

Furthermore, increased litter and noise pollution were identified as risks, while the long and costly construction phase could erode the soil and scare away game.

In addition, the consultants doubt the financial viability of the project: "There are no precautionary measures in case the investors lose interest or go bankrupt. Moreover, the necessary investment would be enormous."

Furthermore, the fact that Sky Eye Tours & Hospitality were given a monopoly over the area, raised concerns.

"This rings several alarm bells. It will become more expensive for Namibians to visit their own natural heritage sites. What happens in the event of a train system breakdown? And the monopolisation of access to such an important site in a national park by a private company that was not selected in an open bidding process raises questions," the consultants wrote.

The consultants added that the operator may not have enough experience in tourism and train operations, NWR may lose income, and communication with the Ministry of Environment has been poor.