City says beaches north of uMngeni River will remain closed due to chemical spillage
The City added the safety of the public is of utmost importance.
THE eThekwini Municipality has reminded residents and visitors that beaches north of the uMngeni River remain closed to fishing, swimming and surfing until authorities deem it safe.
This follows a spill that occurred when a chemical warehouse in Cornubia was torched during the recent unrest.
According to municipality spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, authorities are continuously monitoring the area to determine the extent of the impact of the spill.
Read also: Concerns over potential chronic conditions after burning of Cornubia warehouse
“Water and sediment samples have been analysed and the results are awaited. Thus far, there has been a fish kill in the uMhlanga estuary and its adjacent beach area, with washing up of dead species up to uMdloti Beach. The public are asked to be patient and comply with requests from authorities.
“A specialist chemical clean-up company is cleaning up the spill as well as any contamination. Specialised clean-up crews remain on site to deal with the collection and disposal of dead species in a responsible manner,” Mayisela said.
He urged the public to report any further contamination or fish kill to 083 253 6618.
The Environmental Health Unit can also be contacted on 031 311 3555 during office hours to report any pollution matters or complaints.
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