KZN beach closure: no decision has been taken
'At this stage there is no decision the provincial government has taken or is contemplating to take with regards to the closure of beaches'
THE KZN government has confirmed that, while there has been much speculation over a festive season closure of the province’s beaches, no decision has been taken as yet.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Office of the Premier said that the government had noted reports and proposals around a festive season beach closure, and that government and stakeholders would reflect on the proposals.
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The provincial command council is tasked with readying KZN for the second wave of Covid-19 infections and, to this end, the province activated its resurgence implementation strategy and plan ahead of yesterday’s announcement that the country has entered the second wave.
‘The primary focus is on efforts to mitigate and prevent the resurgence of Covid-19 without further disruptions to economic activity and livelihoods of people,’ said the statement.
The provincial government continues to engage with stakeholders including amakhosi and municipalities, and continues to receive updates on the state of infections.
It said all actions would be based on science and medical advice.
‘The primary goal at this stage is to do all we can to curb the spread of the Covid-19 infections while at the same time working hard to revive the economy following the devastation caused by the pandemic. The province is therefore looking at what can best be done to save lives while also protecting livelihoods,’ said Premier Sihle Zikalala.
The matters in the public domain are currently part of the debates and proposals by various stakeholders, and will be discussed once they are formally tabled.
‘At this stage there is no decision the provincial government has taken or is contemplating to take with regards to the closure of beaches.
‘This may only change based on the assessment of the situation on the ground and based on advice by the medical experts.’
The provincial government urges KZN residents and visitors to do their best and play their part in preventing the spread of the virus.
Zikalala reminded citizens that everyone must wear masks at all times, practise social distancing and avoid large gatherings, sanitise regularly and comply with Level 1 disaster regulations.
Tomorrow (Friday), Zikalala will launch Operation Vala to ensure a safer festive season.
The operation forms part of the province’s proactive efforts to drastically reduce crime, to tighten security measures across the province through law enforcement operations, and to monitor cross-border and interprovincial movements to ensure a safer festive season and beyond.
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