Bathers and holidaymakers in Durban are increasingly concerned about the closure of Bluff Beach, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. This closure is due to serious e-coli contamination, with beaches in Isipingo also being affected by the same issue.

The local municipality has acknowledged the problem, stating that they are actively working to trace the source of the water pollution.

However, the closure has caused significant distress for many, particularly residents like Jacqueline Fynn and Gracienne Beybie, who are calling for urgent action from the authorities.

Jacqueline expressed her shock at the situation, emphasising how much these beaches mean to the community.

“I am quite shocked at what I am hearing because this is part of who we are, and these beaches bring our families to enjoy themselves. It is unfair and it is not right, and this is the only place that we have. If they take this away, what do we do with our children?” Her voice reflected both sadness and frustration at the thought of losing such an important space.

Gracienne added to the growing concern, saying, “It is also incredibly sad that we cannot use the beaches and are contaminated like this. They need to wake up and clear the beach because people and holidaymakers are coming to Durban, and it poses a problem because most of the beaches are closed. They say the beaches are going to be opened, but we don’t know when. The thing is, people from here come here because it is the closest. But the municipality needs to wake up and do something.”

The residents are not just worried about their own families, but also about the broader impact on the local economy and tourism.

Bluff Beach has always been a hub for both relaxation and business and with many beaches now closed, there’s a palpable sense of urgency for the situation to be addressed before it escalates further.