Durban’s beaches open but swimming prohibited

Regulations on Durban Beach openings have finally being made known to the public.

eThekwini municipality stated that beaches are now open but “swimming remains prohibited until further notice”.

As the beach opens alongside other economic activities, beachgoers can jog, walk and do yoga on the beach but they are not allowed to take a dip in the ocean for now.

Municipal spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela said the municipality was still “taking the necessary steps to ensure regulations for swimming are in place”.

“The public is further advised that while beaches are now open for the public to use, the full protocols are still being prepared and confirmation is being sought for bathing and surfing from the provincial authorities on certain omissions not appearing in the gazetted policy as per the national gazetted regulations.”

“In the interim, the parks, leisure and cemeteries department is ensuring the lifeguards and beach maintenance staff are trained and equipped with the regulated necessary personal protective equipment to undertake safe rescues.”

“Protocols are still being finalised for the reopening of beaches to the public”, she said.

Mayisela also disclosed that the predicted severe weather has restricted them from placing shark nets in the beach.

She also added that activities that attract large number of people on the beach is also prohibited.