Beachgoers in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) face altered New Year’s Day plans as the eThekwini Municipality has temporarily closed one bathing beach due to water quality concerns.
Beach Closures and Revisions
Initially, four beaches – Laguna, Pipeline, Toti Main, and Doonside – were slated for temporary closure due to safety and health concerns. However, the municipality revised its notice, stating that only Laguna Beach is currently closed as a precautionary measure.
Reason for Closure
The closure of Laguna Beach is attributed to heavy rainfall over the past weekend, which contaminated the water. The eThekwini Municipality stated the closure is necessary to safeguard public health and will remain in effect until water quality improves.
Despite the closure, the eThekwini Municipality confirmed that 22 beaches across the city remain open and safe for swimming and recreational activities. These include beaches in the central, south, and northern regions.
Ongoing Monitoring and Investigation
Resampling of water quality has been conducted at all closed beaches, and the results are expected to be released as soon as they become available. A team of senior municipal management has been appointed to investigate the source of the pollution and implement mitigation measures.
The municipality has assured holidaymakers that the remaining 19 open bathing beaches are monitored by lifeguards and are supported by a 2,000-strong Metro Police contingent, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (Saps), to ensure a safe festive season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which beaches are currently closed?
Only Laguna Beach has been temporarily closed as of this report.
How many beaches remain open in eThekwini?
22 beaches across the City remain open and safe for swimming and recreational activities.
What is being done to address the pollution?
The city has appointed a team to investigate the source of the pollution and implement appropriate mitigation measures. Water quality is being resampled.
As water quality test results are awaited, it is possible that additional beaches could be temporarily closed, or that Laguna Beach could reopen. The situation will likely depend on future rainfall and the effectiveness of the municipality’s mitigation efforts.
