Beachgoers warned to respect uMhlanga Beach exclusion zone
Residents have noticed some beachgoers ignore exclusion zone signage and warnings from security guards posted on the south side of the mouth of the uMhlanga Lagoon estuary.
WHILE residents and businesses rejoiced when the local beaches reopened, ward councillor, Nicole Bollman, asked residents and visitors to uMhlanga Beach to respect the exclusion zones that have been set up.
Beaches north of the Umgeni River were closed for more than 90 days due to a toxic chemical spill from the United Phosphorus Limited (UPL) warehouse in Cornubia. The warehouse was set on fire during the KZN unrest and led to an environmental disaster and the closure of beaches
A peer review of a specialists’ report noted that, while beaches reopen, an exclusion zone of 1km north and south of the uMhlanga estuary mouth, and 1km out to sea, in which all activities remain prohibited, should be maintained.
Related story: UPL works with SAPS to nab criminals responsible for Cornubia chemical spill
Bollman said she has fielded numerous concerns from residents who noted that beachgoers have ignored signage and warnings from security guards posted on the south side of the estuary mouth.
“I urge residents, who enjoy long walks, to avoid going near the uMhlanga Lagoon mouth as the lifeguards have reported some walkers attempting to cross the mouth to walk further north. Beaches have been opened, which is fantastic, but people need to respect the area of the beach and estuary that remain closed for a specific reason. Rather err on the side of caution. I’m battling to comprehend why some people are ignoring the exclusion zones and the guards on site. I understand UPL will erect a guard hut, and I’ve seen two security guards posted on the beach monitoring activity,” she said.
Bollman added the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will also be conducting surveillance of the area to stop any anglers.
“Initially there was some confusion from some residents who asked if uMhlanga Main and Bronze beaches were open. The 1km going north from the estuary goes as far as Peace Cottage, while the exclusion zone south goes as far as the start of the raised boardwalk on the promenade. It is important to remember that fishing and harvesting of marine resources (shore angling and the harvesting, utilisation and consumption of shellfish), between the Umgeni River mouth to Salt Rock and 1km out to sea, remains prohibited,” she said.
* Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news
Dear reader, As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19. Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).
