CoCT proposes increase in annual budget to effectively deal with fire season

CAPE TOWN - In a bid to deal more effectively with the fire season, the City of Cape Town is proposing to increase its annual budget.

The budget proposal includes an allocation of R17.2 million for increased staffing and resources and an additional R3.6 million to boost the capacity of the Public Emergency Communication Centre. 

The municipality has been battling fires in the city, with vegetation fires recording a jump from 8,462 in 2020 to more than 12,000 in 2024.
 
Structural fires also increased from 3,866 to 4,755 over the same period. 

MMC for Safety and Security JP Smith said the city has proposed an increase in its annual budget, which will go out for public comment soon.

“As Cape Town continues to grow and evolve, its fire department is adapting to meet the changing needs of the community, the city's proactively investing in its emergency services, demonstrating its dedication to protecting its residents and responding to emerging challenges.”