The Durban north beaches that were closed due to contamination from the toxic chemical spill will be reopened for recreational purposes only.
The spill emanated from the UPL Warehouse in Cornubia during the July unrest.
The beaches from the Umgeni River mouth to Salt Rock will start operating from Tuesday, 2 November.
MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs explains the extent of the spillage:
The provincial Department of Tourism and Environmental Affairs says the decision to reopen the beach for bathing follows recommendations from a specialist report on the safety of the beaches and engagements from all government levels.
MEC Ravi Pillay says, however, fishing and harvesting of any marine resource remains prohibited.
“This means that 96 % of the beaches that were closed will be open for recreational purposes only that is swimming and surfing but not fishing, harvesting of any marine resources. the fishing will remain prohibited totally between Umngeni River and Salt Rock. The national department of forestry, fisheries, and environment will make a decision on the reopening of this zone at an appropriate time.”
