Over R5 million set aside to ramp up safety at Durban beachfront
eThewini Municipality has set aside R5 million to enhance safety efforts along the central beachfront in Durban this festive season.
Durban beachfront gets safety boost
eThekwini Municipality recently announced that it would ramp up its efforts to ensure beach safety at the Durban beachfront over this festive season, with a number of strategic interventions.
According to the municipality, R5.4 million has been designated to boost operational support along the central beachfront during the holiday period.
The municipality’s Beachfront Management Office (BMO) will be introducing a number of key initiatives to improve safety and convenience. This will include a crane truck to help support traffic management before, during, and after peak periods. Funds will also be set aside for security to help reduce congestion and streamline access to the area.
To enhance emergency response, funds will also be designated for a 24-hour ambulance and tow truck service along the promenade, ensuring quick aid for rescues and incidents that may occur.
The municipality will also install ablution facilities at the Durban Park-and-Ride site, as well as fund shower maintenance.
Beaches remain closed
In Durban beach-related news, it was recently revealed at an eThekwini Municipality Executive Committee meeting, that thirteen Durban beaches are open while 10 remain temporarily closed due to pollution.
As reported by IOL, Mayor Cyril Xaba has requested the weekly assessment of beach water quality to ensure that residents and visitors are kept informed of the results during the festive season.
This came after the latest beach water quality results, which revealed that only 13 Durban beaches are currently open while 10 remain temporarily closed as officials investigate the source of the pollution.
“As we move into the festive season, we should be testing the beach water quality more often to ensure that our beaches are safe for visitors to enjoy. We have had challenges in the past, but the City has made significant efforts to ensure that our beaches are in pristine condition.
“We are hoping for a bumper festive season this December. Visitors must be assured that aside from beaches, there are many other attractions throughout the City,” Xaba said as per IOL.