Fire Above Boyes Drive Nearly Contained as Crews Battle Table Mountain Blaze

Firefighters from SANParks, the City of Cape Town, and Volunteer Wildfire Services have made significant progress in containing a dangerous fire above Boyes Drive, a scenic road that winds along the slopes of Table Mountain National Park.

The blaze, which ignited early Sunday morning, rapidly spread across dry vegetation due to wind and heat, threatening the nearby communities of Kalk Bay and St James. By Monday, authorities confirmed that the fire above was approximately 90 percent contained, though firefighting operations remain ongoing.

A section of Boyes Drive remains closed to traffic while emergency crews work to completely extinguish the fire and mitigate the risk of flare-ups.

A Coordinated Response to the Fire Above Boyes

The coordinated response between SANParks, City Fire and Rescue Services, and Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) was instrumental in slowing the fire’s advance. Helicopters and ground crews battled the flames in challenging terrain, while water-bombing operations targeted hotspots across the slopes.

City Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse emphasized the importance of continued vigilance despite the progress made.

“Our efforts are now focused on extinguishing the fire near Kalk Bay. Once again, the collaboration between various agencies—TMNP, VWS, and NCC—yielded positive results,” Carelse said. “We will remain on the scene until all embers are extinguished and there’s no further risk.”

The fire, burning in a vulnerable and ecologically sensitive region of Table Mountain National Park, prompted concern from environmentalists and residents alike. Fortunately, no injuries or structural damage have been reported so far.

As a result of the fire above Boyes, authorities closed portions of Boyes Drive between Kalk Bay and Muizenberg. The closure is a necessary precaution, both for the safety of emergency crews working in the area and to prevent civilian traffic from interfering with fire suppression operations.

Motorists are being urged to use alternate routes, such as Main Road or Ou Kaapse Weg, while firefighting efforts continue. The City of Cape Town has also asked hikers and cyclists to avoid the affected trails in Table Mountain National Park, particularly those leading into the area above St James and Kalk Bay.

Cape Town’s fire season, which typically spans from November to April, has extended longer into the year due to shifting climate patterns and low rainfall. The fire above Boyes is a stark reminder of how quickly a blaze can escalate, even during the winter months, especially when wind conditions are favorable for fire spread.

According to SANParks, this fire marks one of several in the region over the past two months. Fortunately, the city has invested heavily in fire prevention and response strategies, including aerial resources, dedicated wildfire crews, and partnerships with organizations like Volunteer Wildfire Services.

“We train year-round for these situations, and our volunteers are always ready to respond. Public awareness and early detection are critical, but once a fire starts, every minute counts. The fire above Boyes Drive is a perfect example of what can be achieved through collaboration and quick mobilization.”

Local residents have praised the emergency services for their rapid response and professionalism. In Kalk Bay and Muizenberg, some residents were placed on alert but did not need to evacuate thanks to the successful containment efforts.

Environmental groups, meanwhile, are assessing the potential damage to fynbos vegetation and wildlife in the affected areas. Table Mountain National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the world’s most diverse plant species, many of which are fire-adapted but still vulnerable if fires occur too frequently or out of season.

With containment nearly complete, authorities are now shifting their focus to long-term monitoring of the fire above Boyes and assessing possible flare-up zones. Ground crews will patrol the burned area over the next several days to ensure no embers reignite.

The City of Cape Town has also reminded residents to report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. Illegal open flames, carelessly discarded cigarette butts, and uncontrolled burning remain among the top causes of wildfires in the region.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of SANParks, the City of Cape Town, and Volunteer Wildfire Services, the fire above Boyes Drive is now largely under control. While the risk has been significantly reduced, fire authorities are urging continued caution as they work to extinguish all remaining hotspots.

With the community’s support and ongoing vigilance, Cape Town can continue to protect its natural heritage and minimize the threat posed by wildfires on its iconic mountainsides.

 Source- EWN