Despite earlier contravention notices being issued to eThekwini Municipality, there has been no improvement in E.coli levels with six beaches closed in the last few days.
According to the municipality, the closures came into effect after water quality tests on 19 September revealed E.coli counts above 500 colony forming units (CFU). The following beaches are affected;
• Battery Beach – 9 804 cfu/100 ml
• Country Club Beach – 717 cfu/100 ml
• Thekwini Beach – 2 247 cfu/100 ml
• Laguna Beach – 3 654 cfu/100 ml
• Ansteys Beach – 4 884 cfu/100 ml and
• Reunion Beach – 1 904 cfu/100 ml
The presence of high levels of E. coli at eThekwini’s beaches has severe consequences for sustainable tourism in the region. Since 2021 there has been no major improvement, despite tourism being critical to improve both our domestic and international market numbers.
The closure of beaches over the past three years, due to high E.coli levels, has already taken a significant toll on the tourism industry. The economic effects are far-reaching, affecting local businesses, accommodations, and activities that rely on tourism, with the entire water sport, yachting and sailing tourism sectors equally affected by these sewer spills.
Waterborne pollution poses significant health risks to tourists, residents, and employees, including lifeguards. Exposure to contaminated water can lead to illnesses, damaging the local tourism industry’s reputation and deterring visitors.
The root cause of the problem lies in eThekwini’s broken sewer system, which releases untreated wastewater into the ocean. This environmental degradation also harms marine life.
The DA will submit parliamentary questions at both national and provincial government level to ascertain what has been done as a result of the contravention notices, if anything, and will hold the municipality to account.
While the beach closures come as the September school holidays draw to an end, the big concern now is whether the situation will be rectified ahead of the festive season. If our beaches are closed due to E.coli levels, then KZN stands to lose millions.
The DA calls on the leadership of eThekwini Municipality to prioritise fixing its broken sewer system. We further call on the municipality to develop sustainable tourism strategies that balance economic growth with environmental conservation.
By taking these steps, eThekwini can reclaim its reputation as a safe and sustainable tourist destination, protecting both its environment and economy and ensuring the creation of jobs.