UPDATE: Planning proceeds for disposal of Amanzimtoti whale carcass

DISPOSING of the whale calf carcass which died this morning, 21 August in the shorebreak off Pipeline Beach can be a controversial procedure.

Cllr Andre Beetge explained why the following procedure has been chosen and the reasons why it is the best route to follow in such a case.

“We are faced with a situation where a humpback whale calf of about two-years-old and weighing between six and seven tonnes, beached and died from unknown causes this morning,” said Beetge.

Previously: Local whale-watcher raises SOS for beached whale in distress

It cannot be left to decompose naturally and as there are no resources to tow it out to sea, parks officials have recommended and the municipality has requested authorisation for the following course of action, to remain in compliance with guidelines:

1. That the carcass be anchored to a TLB (which has already been done) in anticipation of the high tide at 1pm.
2. To ensure it remains secured to the TLB while the carcass is elevated by the tide.
3. This would ensure the carcass remains on dry land when the tide turns, with access to officials from 3pm onwards.
4. All available resources, including human and logistical, as determined by the local parks department management, be authorised to remain on duty with compensation, to dissect and dispose of the carcass in the minimum time.
5.That this same formula be applied by Durban Solid Waste (DSW), in close liaison with the parks and beach management, to provide the required resources between Pipeline Beach and the Vulamehlo landfill site.
6. That DSW further arrange the necessary resources to ensure the landfill site remains open and available for the disposal of the carcass after hours.
Parks department has applied for the necessary disposal documentation as per the Marine Animal Carcass Disposal guidelines.

“Members of the public are warned not to remove any parts for bait or to consume any of the meat that could contain parasites such as hookworms, tape worms and round worms; bacteria such as salmonella and clostridium; pesticides, dieldrin, PCB’s and heavy metals such as mercury, zinc, copper and lead or to interfere with authorities during the disposal process.

Call Cllr Andre Beetge on 082-718-8137.

Watch Andreas Mathios’ video:

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