uMhlanga gets another shot at Blue Flag status

HOPE of the uMhlanga main beach regaining the prestigious Blue Flag status has once again been restored. Earlier today, the mayor, Councillor James Nxumalo, announced that the popular public recreational site was one of five Durban beaches to receive the pilot Blue Flag status.

However, pollution from storm water drains and canine faeces were still a major concern in terms of costing the major coastal beach its coveted Blue Flag.

Umgababa, eMdloti main beach, Umdloti tidal beach and Brighton beach also received the pilot status nod of approval from the Wildlife and Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA), while the city’s Westbrook Beach and Ushaka Beach were awarded full Blue Flag statuses.

A Blue Flag is a trusted and voluntary eco-label which signifies safety, security and cleanliness. To receive the Blue Flag status, the site has to adhere to more than 33 strict coastal management criteria, such as superior water quality, safety and services, environmental management and environmental education.

The pilot status is a stepping stone towards reaching the full Blue Flag status and the city will have a year to meet all of the requirements and stand a chance to earn the full status.

Last year, the uMhlanga main beach was also awarded the pilot status, but according to eThekwini DA councillor, Geoff Pullan, and uMhlanga ward councillor, Heinz de Boer, the incomplete lifeguard tower, pollution and the major issues with dumped fishing lines and hooks could cost the beach its full status.

What’s more, De Boer said dog owners who fail to clean up after their-four-legged companions while walking on the beach could also be thwarting the beach’s chances. A single dog excretion could affect the water quality of a beach for an entire day, he added.

Last month there were also reports of a black sludge seeping into Grannies Pool on uMhlanga Beach via one of the storm drains.

“There are a few irresponsible members of the public, but we need the community to take ownership of the beach and to become passionate about conserving the beach. It is good for tourism and ultimately good for the city,” he said.

With the completion of the lifeguard tower, Pullen said they would be focusing on maintaining the beach, keeping it safe and facilitating conservation and environmental educational facilities at the site.

“I feel that both the uMhlanga and eMdloti main beach have the potential to be awarded the full Blue Flag status.”

The top beaches were revealed to city officials during an official ceremony in Hermanus on Wednesday.

The Blue Flag programme was implemented in South Africa in 2001 through WESSA, but has been running internationally for 28 years. Its aim is to facilitate and raise awareness about coastal and marine conservation.