Durban's beachfront bustling as festive season kicks off; mayor projects over 1.3 million visitors
The hot and humid conditions in Durban on Tuesday saw thousands of beachgoers flock to the Durban beachfront.
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers
Durban mayor Cyril Xaba says he is confident that the city will attract more than 1.3 million visitors during the festive season.
Speaking during a walkabout along the beachfront on Tuesday, Mayor Xaba said he was satisfied with the police visibility across the city, with some officers deployed on horseback and bicycles.
Thousands of beachgoers flocked to the beachfront to cool off on the Day of Reconciliation public holiday amid the hot weather in the city.
Xaba encouraged holidaymakers visiting the beach to co-operate with lifeguards and police by refraining from consuming alcohol before entering the water, as this could lead to drownings.
“I am happy that, so far, people are behaving responsibly, and there have been no major incidents reported,” said Xaba.
He added that with all 23 bathing beaches open, the City expects the number of beachgoers to increase further on December 26 and 31, as well as on January 1.
The Christmas lights in the Durban CBD.
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers
“The increase in visitor numbers at the beach also boosts local businesses, particularly restaurants and informal traders. Hotels have indicated that they expect higher occupancy rates compared to last year,” said Xaba.
In keeping with the festive spirit, Xaba also officially switched on the Christmas lights along Dr Pixley ka Seme Street in the Durban CBD on Monday night.