The eThekwini Municipality has opened some of its beaches ahead of the big Durban July weekend. Here’s the beaches that are now open…
The eThekwini Municipality has announced that it will open some of its beaches on Friday, 1 July as it gears up for the Hollywoodbets Durban July this weekend. All beaches in the eThekwini Municipality were closed to the public following the April torrential rains which caused damage as well as high E.coli levels.
ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY TO OPEN DURBAN BEACHES
EThekwini Municipality spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela said they decided to open the beaches following the latest water quality results which indicated that E-Coli levels were within acceptable standards.
“The public can now enjoy bathing and other sporting activities at these beaches,” Mayisela said.
Amanzimtoti, Warner, Umgababa, Umhlanga Rocks, Umdloti, Addington, Bronze, Bay of Plenty, Wedge, North, Country Club, uShaka, Battery, Southern and Vetch Pier (Point) are now open.
Umkomaas, Lighthouse, Beachwood Mangrove, Umdloti beach tidal area, Casuarina in Tongaat, Granny’s Pool, Beachwood, eThekwini and Suncoast beach will remain closed for swimming but open for religious and spiritual rituals, walking dogs and fishing.
HIGH LEVEL E. COLI PRESENCE CAUSES CONCERN
The start of sardine season in KwaZulu-Natal has prompted environmentalists to warn citizens of Durban, especially in eThekwini against eating fish that have been caught along the coastline.
The warning stems from reports indicating the presence of E. coli, an incredibly harmful bacteria, in rivers and beaches. Multiple beaches still remain closed to the public as a result of E.coli reports in the water.
Desmond D’Sa the coordinator of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance commented on the impact that E. coli could have on fish along the coastline. He also mentioned common health problems that may impact those who consume the contaminated fish.
By: Nokwanda Ncwane
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