Four Durban beaches declared safe for swimming following recent water quality tests

JOHANNESBURG - Four popular beaches in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), have been declared safe for recreational and swimming activities following recent water quality tests.

Umhlanga Lighthouse, North Beach, uShaka Beach, and the Golden Mile recently passed water safety assessments.

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The Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, which is under the Durban University of Technology, conducted the tests in preparation for the Easter holiday period.

Water samples collected and analysed on Thursday revealed that E. coli levels at the four beaches were within acceptable limits for public use.

E. coli is a naturally occurring bacterium found in water, but high concentrations can pose health risks, including diarrhoea and stomach cramps.

However, the institute also found that six other beaches in the eThekwini Municipality exceeded safe E. coli levels and are currently not recommended for public use.

In a statement, Professor Faizal Bux, a director at the institute, said that regular testing was critical to safeguarding public health.

Authorities are expected to continue monitoring water quality to inform the public of any changes in beach safety conditions.