Millions still needed for Durban coastline

It will cost the KwaZulu-Natal government just under R1 billion to completely refurbish the province’s coastline. Nearly R100 million has already been spent, to ensure the beaches are safe for tourists this summer.

The damage was caused by high tides that rattled the coastline of KwaZulu-Natal in March this year. The incident had a negative impact, not only on tourism, but on nature conservation as well. There were cancellations of hotel bookings, in almost 80% of hotels, along the coast.

However, since then, authorities have been working tirelessly to repair the damage. KwaZulu-Natal is expecting a total of 2.5 million visitors this summer. Tourism officials say hotel occupancy currently stands at 76%.

Police are out in full force to protect those visiting the province.