Thousands of fish dead: KwaDukuza beaches closed as pollution investigation begins

An investigation is underway, based on water samples, to find the cause of pollution that killed thousands of fish in the Mhlali River mouth within the KwaDukuza Municipality. 

The uMhlali River mouth at Tinley Manor Beach and the Shaka’s Cove Tidal Pool in Salt Rock are temporarily closed until further notice following a reported fish kill incident in the affected areas on Thursday. 

Nhlanhla Mdakane, the municipal manager of  KwaDukuza municipality, said that this precautionary measure has been implemented to protect public health, the environment, and safety.

“Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the incident, and comprehensive water quality assessments are being conducted. Relevant authorities are actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as further information becomes available,” he said. 

The affected areas will only be reopened once it has been confirmed that conditions are safe for public use. 

During this closure period, the public is advised to: 

• Refrain from swimming or entering the water
• Avoid fishing, collecting marine life, or participating in any water-related activities
• Keep children and pets away from affected areas

Privi Makhan, caucus leader for Democratic Alliance, KwaDukuza, said incidents of this nature threaten the fragile ecosystems.

“This is a very sad and serious environmental matter.  Our coastline and waterways are critical environmental and economic assets, and any harm to them must be treated with urgency and transparency,” Makhan said. 

She welcomed the fact that comprehensive water testing and environmental assessments are currently underway to determine the exact cause of this incident.

Makhan said it was important that the public is provided with clear updates as soon as verified information becomes available.

“As local councillors, we will continue to monitor developments closely and insist on full transparency,” she said. 

On Wednesday, January 28, it was reported that the estuary and the Isiphingo River mouth, south of Durban, were contaminated with sewage. A damaged wastewater pipe on Prospecton Road, compounded by a cable theft incident at the Isiphingo Beach wastewater pump station, led to the death of hundreds of fish in a nearby estuary.

zainul.dawood@inl.co.za