THE City has reminded residents and visitors that all beaches north of the uMngeni River up to Tongaat River remain closed.

According to eThekwini Municipality’s spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela, authorities are appealing to the public to refrain from any beach activities until the water quality is deemed safe.

“The closure of the beaches follows the chemical spill that occurred during the unrest in July when a chemical warehouse in Cornubia was set alight. The spill contaminated the Ohlanga River and uMhlanga Estuary which leads to the sea in the uMhlanga area. Authorities closed the beaches as a precautionary measure as it was not known how far the contamination had spread, what chemicals had leeched into the sea, and what effect it would have on the human health.

Read also: Probe into Cornubia chemical spill to be finalised in September

“Results of initial samples taken were received today and the professional specialist team employed by UPL have advised the city that beaches should remain closed. A second set of test samples were taken last week, results of which are due back on Friday. Authorities will reassess the temporary closure of the beaches and related activities. The public are asked to be patient and comply with requests from authorities. Any inconvenience is regretted however the safety of the public is of utmost importance,” Mayisela said. 

He added the water in Ohlanga River and uMhlanga Estuary is deemed toxic due the chemicals in the system and is therefore not safe for any use.

“Fences have been erected and guards have been placed in the vicinity of the estuary to ensure that the public do not enter the area. The public are urged to obey the instruction of the officials and guards,” he said.