WATCH: eThekwini Mayor takes a swim at festive season launch
The programme will include an update on the city’s beaches as well as demonstrations of various beach activities available to the public.
THE eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, took a dip at Durban’s North Beach today, December 1, as he unveiled the city’s state of readiness for the festive season.
Speaking at a press conference during the event, Kaunda said the beaches are open and safe for swimming – this after ongoing beach closures this year due to high E. coli levels in the water.
“We have partnered with a reputable, independent laboratory, Talbot, to constantly test the quality of our water and share our results publicly. This morning, we conducted an assessment from Umhlanga’s Main and Bronze beaches and we are pleased the quality of the water has improved,” he said.
He added that safety would be prioritised during the festive season.
“We have declared zero tolerance on crime and lawlessness as our law enforcement officers will maintain high visibility to save lives and ensure visitors have a safe and joyous festive season,” said Kaunda.
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Also speaking at the press conference, Deputy City Manager for Trading Services, Sibusiso Makhanya, said the City repair work to address frequent sewage spills was at its final stages.
“It’s important to note that we have ongoing work in terms of fixing our infrastructure which is part of our master plan. What we are doing at the moment is interim work that is related to the storm damage. As far as that is concerned, we are over 75% finished in terms of the work needed,” he said.
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Deputy City Manager for communication and emergency services, Musa Gumede, added that the City would deploy additional staff to assist the community during the festive period.
“To make sure our beaches are clean and safe, there will be 60 lifeguards; 135 litter pickers to complement the DSW staff; 67 beach buddies who will be guiding beachgoers; 48 childminders who will provide 150 000 armband issues to each parent and child at the beach,” he said. ” We have also secured an overnight facility in case people do not claim their children, where children will be safe.”
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