Lab Results Reveal Solid Matter Originating From Food Establishments
eThekwini Municipality has reopened two of the uMhlanga beaches, uMhlanga Main Beach and Bronze Beach, after their temporary closure following the discovery of mysterious ball-shaped solid matter mixed with sand.
The municipality shut down the beaches on Wednesday as a precautionary measure while its water and sanitation unit, along with scientific services, conducted laboratory tests to determine the origin of the solid material.
Lab Test Results Confirm Food-Related Origins
Laboratory analyses of the ball-shaped matter revealed that it consisted primarily of fats, likely originating from food establishments. According to eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Gugu Sisilana, water samples collected from both beaches showed very low faecal contamination levels.
“Findings indicate very low faecal contamination in water samples taken on 7 January 2025 at both the uMhlanga Main Beach and Bronze Beach. The source of the solid ball matter is being profiled to confirm its origin,” Sisilana stated.
Cleanup and Public Safety Measures
Following the completion of the investigations, clean-up operations have commenced to remove the solid matter from the beaches. Sisilana emphasized the importance of avoiding unverified claims, stating, “The municipality cautions against the spreading of unverified information and urges the public and media to refrain from speculative reporting.”
eThekwini has assured residents and visitors that it is committed to maintaining transparency regarding beach water quality and will provide ongoing updates. The city also confirmed that 21 other beaches in the area remain open and safe for swimming.
Blue Flag Accreditation Not Renewed
While the municipality continues to address concerns over water quality, it has not applied for Blue Flag accreditation for several years. This international status is granted to beaches with excellent water quality, assessed based on E.coli concentrations along the shore.
Beaches Still Closed
The municipality noted that Anstey’s Beach and Country Club Beach remain closed due to ongoing maintenance at the Wastewater Treatment Works.
A Step Toward Restoring Durban’s Beach Appeal
The reopening of uMhlanga Main Beach and Bronze Beach marks a positive development for Durban’s tourism sector, which heavily relies on its coastline attractions. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed through official updates and enjoy the city’s vast array of beach options.
For more updates on Durban beaches, visit the official eThekwini Municipality website.
Also read: KZN Tourists Targeted: Police Warn Against Online Travel Scams and Fake Bookings
