This is the second in our Map of the Quarter series, and it deals with land constraints in Gauteng. There are a number of factors that are constraints to the development of land.
Gauteng, South Africa’s smallest, but most populous, province, has a shortage of land due to the following natural factors:
Land underlain by dolomitic rock may cause sinkholes, which may lead to catastrophic collapse, death and structural damage.
A significant portion of the province has high agricultural potential. Agriculture is essential for food security and economic growth.
Gauteng is rich in biodiversity and it is important that land is developed in such a way that fauna and flora are preserved for future generations.
Water resources in Gauteng are limited and this province is dependent on water sources from as far away as Lesotho. Therefore, the protection of our own water resources is important.
Gauteng is the most populous province in South Africa. With three metropolises, this province provides the most job opportunities and as a result also attracts the highest number of people. This places a tremendous amount of pressure on land resources in the province.
There are a number of mountainous areas in Gauteng that restrict human habitation. Although there are areas on steep hills in the province, the excavation of rocky areas is an expensive procedure.
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