Holidaymakers can dive into Durban’s summer with confidence this year as the eThekwini Municipality has announced that all 23 of its bathing beaches are open and safe for swimming.

Berea Mail reports that municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana says the city has gone all out to prepare for the influx of visitors expected over the festive season.

“The city has pulled [out] all [the] stops to ensure that holidaymakers and visitors have a memorable and enjoyable experience in Durban,” she says.

With 1.3 million visitors expected to descend on the city, Sisilana says Durban is fully geared up for a vibrant and well-managed season. “The City is confident and fully prepared to deliver yet another vibrant holiday season,” she adds.

As part of readiness efforts, all swimming pools along the beach promenade have been serviced, cleaned and refilled. This includes the Children’s Amusement Centre swimming pool, the South Beach paddling pool and the Laguna swimming pool. Two additional swimming facilities, Illovu and Asherville, are also set to reopen following extensive repairs. Both pools had been out of operation due to damage, but have now been restored.

With beach safety a priority, the city says expert scientists are continuously monitoring water quality across the coastline. Recent tests confirmed that all 23 beaches meet water quality and safety standards.

Beaches that are open include UShaka, Addington, North Beach, Laguna Beach, Country Club, Bay of Plenty, Umhlanga Main and Mdloti Main. While Durban North, KwaMashu G, Tessoriere, Bayview, Westville, Rachel Finlayson and Laguna Paddling swimming pools are among those opened to the public.

Sisilana urges residents and visitors to follow safety rules at all times.

“The city would like to warn everyone that swimming under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. Instructions by law enforcement officers, lifesavers and pool supervisors need to be obeyed at all times to ensure safety for all bathers. Beachgoers are warned that jumping off the pier at the beach is prohibited, as it is extremely dangerous,” says Sisilana.

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