Recreational and Fishing Ban Imposed on eThekwini Beaches Amid Sewage

“The city is committed to resolving this issue and ensuring the safety of the environment and public health,” the municipality stated.

The eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has announced a ban on all recreational and fishing activities from the Umngeni Estuary to the Blue Lagoon non-bathing beach. The decision comes in response to significant sewage discharge near the mouth of the Umngeni River, posing environmental and health risks.

The prohibition aligns with a Coastal Compliance Notice issued by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). The directive is in accordance with Section 59(1) of the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act No. 24 of 2008, highlighting the urgency of addressing coastal pollution.

Ongoing Investigations and Infrastructure Repairs

The municipality has launched a thorough investigation to identify the source of the sewage effluent discharge. Once the source is confirmed, repairs to the damaged infrastructure will begin. The investigation is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the environmental risks posed by untreated sewage entering the estuary.

“The city is committed to resolving this issue and ensuring the safety of the environment and public health,” the municipality stated.

Challenges of Vandalism and Illegal Connections

The municipality identified key factors exacerbating the pollution, including:

• Theft and vandalism of sewer infrastructure.
• Illegal connections to the sewer system.

These issues have significantly contributed to elevated levels of E. coli and other pollutants in estuaries and beaches.

Call for Public Cooperation

eThekwini Municipality has urged residents to report acts of vandalism or theft to authorities. Public vigilance is seen as essential to preventing further damage to critical infrastructure.

“The city is actively addressing all infrastructural defects that pose risks to the environment and remains committed to apprehending those responsible for vandalism,” the statement read.

Fishing Restrictions and Public Safety Measures

In light of the sewage discharge, fishermen have been asked to refrain from fishing in the affected areas until further notice. The municipality emphasized the importance of adherence to the restrictions while the investigation continues.

Impact on Marine and Public Health

Environmental experts have warned that untreated sewage discharge not only endangers marine life but also poses significant health risks to humans. Elevated E. coli levels in the water could result in infections, especially for individuals in direct contact with contaminated water.

Strengthening Coastal Management

The municipality’s measures underscore a broader effort to strengthen coastal management and environmental compliance. In addition to the repairs, there are plans to enhance the protection of sewer infrastructure through community partnerships and improved security measures.

Looking Ahead

As the investigation progresses, the eThekwini Municipality remains focused on restoring environmental safety and maintaining public health standards. Further updates will be issued regarding the status of the investigation and the timeline for lifting the restrictions.

Residents and visitors are urged to respect the temporary prohibitions to ensure the long-term health of the estuary and surrounding coastal regions.