Four Durban beaches closed due to pollution probes
The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that 19 Durban beaches are open to the public, while four remain temporarily closed due to ongoing investigations into pollution sources.
This update was shared as Durban Mayor Cyril Xaba unveiled the city’s comprehensive festive season management plan on Wednesday.
Among the beaches ready to welcome visitors are popular spots like uShaka Beach, Umhlanga Main Beach, and Amanzimtoti Main Beach.
“As we edge closer to the festive season, we continue to monitor and conduct weekly assessments of beach water quality to ensure residents and visitors are kept informed,” said Mayor Xaba.
“We also have over 30 swimming pools open across the city for public enjoyment.”
The city is bracing for an influx of 1.3 million visitors during the holiday season, and Mayor Xaba said that safety remained a top priority. “Metro Police, in collaboration with SAPS, the Road Traffic Inspectorate, and private security companies, will maintain high visibility at tourism sites and identified crime hotspots,” he said.
Key safety measures include access control to beachfront roads, a free park-and-ride shuttle running every 30 minutes, and strict enforcement against drinking and reckless driving.
“Multidisciplinary roadblocks will be conducted throughout the city to combat all forms of criminality,” said Mr Xaba.
To bolster law enforcement, 500 new Metro Police officers will be deployed in the coming days, supported by 170 high-performance vehicles for round-the-clock patrols. Specialised units on horseback and bicycles, along with extensive CCTV monitoring, will enhance security.
The city is finalising the recruitment of 540 seasonal workers to ensure a safe and welcoming environment. This workforce will include 135 litter pickers, 104 beach guides, and 105 pool attendants.
To help families, 200 000 armbands will be distributed to children for easy identification. Seven tents will be set up along the beachfront as safe spaces for children separated from their parents, with an overnight facility secured for such cases.
Mr Xaba reiterated the city’s commitment to delivering a “clean and safe holiday experience,” promising a festive season that balances fun with robust safety measures.
Durban’s readiness highlights the city’s determination to offer residents and tourists a memorable festive season while ensuring safety, cleanliness, and environmental responsibility.
