Scientists discover critical E.coli levels at Durban beaches
The Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) at Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently conducted one of their water quality tests at 14 Durban beaches and discovered that 11 popular Durban beaches have alarmingly high E.Coli levels.
THE Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) at Durban University of Technology (DUT) conducted water quality tests at some of Durban’s popular beach destinations (swimming and non-swimming) on Wednesday, July 3.
According to Professor Faizal Bux, Director of the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology at DUT, the results from the 14 beaches under evaluation were alarming. He confirmed that 11 beaches, Ballito Tidal Pool, Westbrook Beach, Umdloti Beach, Glenashely Beach, Virginia Beach, Umgeni River, Umgeni River mouth, Laguna Beach, Country Club Beach, Bay of Plenty, and Addington Beach had critical levels of Escherichia coli (E.coli) in the water. Prof Bux revealed that only two beaches, Bronze Beach and Umhlanga Lighthouse had acceptable levels of E. coli in the water and tested as ideal, meanwhile Ushaka Beach had lower levels E.coli.
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“Compared to the other Durban beaches, Ushaka Beach showed lower levels of E. coli. The water quality at 11 beaches were ‘critical’ and the IWWT scientists advises beachgoers that these beaches should not be used for recreational purposes until the E.coli levels drop to acceptable standards,” advised Prof Bux.
In addition, Prof Bux indicated that historically the mouth of the Umgeni river has always presented critical levels of E. coli limits which is an unfortunate situation.
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“The independent water quality tests are conducted on a regular basis usually during holidays by the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology at DUT in the interest of public safety. The IWWT releases the results in the public interest,” shared Prof Bux.
Interpretation of results
Samples were obtained and analysed pertaining to the E.coli range (count/100ml), water quality and interpretation on the 03 July 2024.
The microbiological water quality results are as follows:
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