By Akani Nkuna
eThekwini Metro officials have assured the public that KwaZulu-Natal’s beaches are open, safe and fully operational ahead of the festive season, as the city prepares for an influx of holidaymakers.
Deputy Head of Tourism in Durban, Welile Mntungwa, told the SABC on Tuesday, 16 December, that comprehensive measures had been implemented to showcase the city’s tourism offerings and ensure readiness across Durban.
“Our beaches — all of them — are working. Durban’s beaches and swimming pools are operational. We are encouraging visitors who have not yet travelled to make the decision to come because Durban is ready,” Mntungwa said.
She acknowledged recent challenges at Umhlanga but said they had been resolved swiftly.
“All the beaches are working, 100%. Umhlanga experienced a glitch, but there was a quick turnaround in addressing the water treatment and sewer blockage. We are proud to confirm that all beaches, including those that previously had problems, as well as swimming pools across the city, are fully operational.”
Earlier this month, the municipality temporarily closed Umhlanga Main Beach and Bronze Beach following a pump station failure that raised wastewater concerns at the start of the festive period. The city said the incident was caused by the abuse of sewage infrastructure through the disposal of foreign objects that blocked the system.
Repairs have since been completed, and the municipality has urged residents and visitors to dispose of waste responsibly using designated bins along the beachfront.
Mntungwa also highlighted heightened safety measures, saying law enforcement agencies were working together to ensure visitor safety during the festive season.
“There is strong police visibility, with police and disaster management teams deployed across the city. Safety is clearly a priority, and response times have been encouraging,” she said.
On 16 December, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba monitored the city’s festive season management plans, engaging with beachgoers from uShaka Marine World to North Beach and consulting law enforcement officials on security arrangements.
INSIDE METROS