ENDLESS waves of tranquillity await visitors to eThekwini this summer as the city improves on safety and waste management in preparation for the influx of tourists during the busy season.

Launching their festive season management plans (FESMAC) on Friday with traditional dancers and live entertainment, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba said they are well equipped and ready to host 1 300 000 holidaymakers expected to descend during the festive season.

“For the first time in five years, all our bulk water reservoirs are stable and operating at full capacity,” said Xaba.”This means that communities in the north, south, and central regions will enjoy uninterrupted water supply during this period and beyond.”

He confirmed that repairs to critical infrastructure has also led to all 23 bathing beaches in eThekwini remaining open for the summer. “Since the 2022 floods, we have worked diligently to repair and upgrade sewer infrastructure, particularly systems affecting our coastline,” said Xaba as he welcomed independent testing of the beach water.

Also Read: eThekwini beaches ready for summer, 1.3 million visitors expected

He said, “We continue to monitor beach water quality through weekly testing, and we are confident that this progress puts us firmly on the path toward achieving Blue Flag status.”

Alongside the beaches remaining open, 43 of the city’s swimming pools are open to the public which was news welcomed by Durban’s Deputy Director of Tourism, Winile Mntungwa. She said getting the city ready for the summer started a while back.

“We can assure visitors that there will be no need to cut their visits short this time,” said Mntungwa. “Previously, with the challenges of E.coli and the weather damaging the infrastructure we saw people cutting down on their travels in eThekwini, affecting tourism. There are attractions and entertainment.”

She said visitors will be spoilt for choice with entertainment this season under the watchful eye of law enforcement which has been beefed up. “eThekwini takes your safety seriously,” she said.

Also Read: Umbilo’s Tesoriere Pool to stay open despite safety concerns

More than 2000 officers will be deployed for day and night-time patrols on freeways, the beachfront, at shopping centres, and at crime hotspots. These efforts are supported by a network of more than 500 CCTV cameras.

The numbers were confirmed by Durban Metro Police Service Commissioner Sibonelo Mchunu who said “law abiding citizens will not fear the heightened presence of law enforcement”.

Mchunu said 21 roadblocks have been planned over the season to ensure road safety. “This festive season brings an increased movement of people with it being the first in a while where we do not have E.coli and waste management concerns or issues with swimming pools,” said Mchunu.

“We need the high visibility of personnel along the beaches and highways with joint operations with SAPS, Home Affairs and RTI. With our 21 roadblock we will target people who are not law abiding citizens. Law abiding citizens will have a good time,” added Mchunu.

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here