Top pass mark for KwaDukuza beaches

KwaDukuza’s beaches have received a stamp of approval for safe bathing conditions, cleanliness and control of unruly behaviour.

This comes as a reassurance to holidaymakers and locals surging onto Ballito’s beaches during the festive period.

KwaDukuza mayor Lindile Nhaca confirmed rigorous tests were conducted in an accredited independent laboratory, endorsed by the Blue Flag programme, confirming the pristine condition of the major North Coast beaches from Willard Beach to Zinkwazi.

This is in contrast to some Durban beaches grappling with high E. coli levels.

The most recent test results conducted on December 18 were shared with the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA).

“All test results are shared directly with WESSA by the laboratory to ensure transparency,” said Nhaca.

“We wish to assure all holidaymakers that our beaches are safe, and we invite all patrons to use this opportunity to explore our wonderful area during this festive season.”

The Ballito Urban Improvment Precinct (UIP) also sends bi-monthly samples to BN Kirk laboratories from eight beaches and four tidal pools between Salmon Bay and Sheffield Beach. The most recent results were published on December 18 from samples taken on December 12, showing ideal conditions for swimming across the board. Results have shown no presence of E. coli in our waters for the past six months.

Addressing water pollution concerns, Siza Water group’s human resource manager Nigel Kaligan explained their proactive approach.

Regular pump inspections, a 24/7 telemetry system, and backup generators contribute to the prevention of sewage spills into the ocean.

“Telemetry alarms are checked and tested regularly to ensure they are operational. We have backup generators installed at all sewer pump stations to ensure pumps can operate during power outages and loadshedding. Each pump station is fitted with a duty and backup pump. In the event of pump failures, we have maintenance teams on standby 24/7 to attend to any breakdowns and emergencies,” said Kaligan.

“We regularly test streams but not the seawater. If there is a suspected spill, then we have an external laboratory to test the seawater.”

iLembe Chamber of Commerce CEO Cobus Oelofse emphasised the region’s appeal beyond sandy beaches, citing rock pools, tidal pools, estuaries and lagoons.

He assured the public that the North Coast remains unaffected by the water quality issues experienced at southern beaches.

“A major contributor to the water quality of our beaches, though, remains the quality of operational and maintenance management of water and sanitation infrastructure.

“This ensures that sewer infrastructure is properly managed, remains operational, and is attended to speedily when issues do arise, thereby minimising the impact of any spillage.

“Not all our beaches have sewer infrastructure in close proximity, which makes it equally important that our waterways such as rivers are also monitored continuously for possible sewer and industrial effluent contamination,” said Oelofse.

Natasha Pretorius of Parsons Holiday Lettings underlined the significance of the beaches in attracting holidaymakers.

“We are currently fully booked, but if for any reason, beaches close, about 60% of bookings would be cancelled.”

Concha Café and Conchilla Tapas Lounge & Bar co-owner Diogo Barendse said beach safety and cleanliness were popular topics among his customers.

“Whenever we have customers from outside this area, their first questions are about the cleanliness of the beach and, secondly, its safety. These are crucial factors for our businesses to be successful,” said Barendse.

Ballito’s beaches continue to be closely monitored through a collaboration between Saps, the municipal crime prevention unit, UIP, community policing forum, Ballito and Salt Rock Neighbourhood

Watches and local security companies. Stop and search operations on the beaches have thus far prevented unwanted drunken and criminal behaviour from marring the tourist appeal of the area.

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