Three Durban beaches reopened after pollution scare

The eThekwini Municipality has announced the reopening of three of the four Durban beaches that were closed due to alarming pollution levels, as local authorities strive to maintain safety for beachgoers during the festive season. The closure was implemented last Thursday following high E.coli readings, which prompted urgent testing and assessments by the City’s water quality unit.

In a statement released on Saturday, the municipality confirmed that EThekwini Beach, Country Club Beach, and Battery Beach have been cleared for public use after further water quality testing indicated favourable results. However, the Blue Lagoon Beach remains closed. The municipality did not disclose the specific results of these tests, and the beach status report on its website has yet to be updated. 

The announcement is pivotal given the growing concerns surrounding beach safety, particularly in light of a recent ruling from the Pietermaritzburg High Court that has demanded the municipality take decisive action against ongoing sewage spills affecting the city’s water bodies. The court explicitly instructed eThekwini to expedite its action plan for repairs and maintenance of sewerage infrastructure, and to keep the court informed about its advancement.

In response to these judicial demands, the municipality assured the public that many necessary measures were already underway. It reported noticeable improvements in the performance of wastewater treatment facilities throughout various regions of the City, suggesting that concerted efforts are being made to enhance water quality.

With the festive season in full swing, the City has emphasised that 22 of its bathing beaches are currently open and being actively monitored by lifeguards, Metro Police officers, and South African Police Service members. This effort is aimed at ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for both locals and tourists visiting Durban’s popular coastline.

The reopening of the three beaches offers a glimmer of optimism for residents, many of whom rely on the city’s beaches for recreation and leisure during the busy holiday period. Yet, concerns persist regarding the ongoing issues with water quality and the area’s sewage management systems, as local authorities continue to navigate the balance between public health and community enjoyment.

IOS