Local fisherfolk are calling on the eThekwini Municipality to provide transparency and timelines regarding the continued closure of Blue Lagoon Beach, which has been off-limits since January due to dangerously high levels of E. coli in the water.
The closure, which stretches from the Umngeni Estuary to the non-bathing area at Blue Lagoon, was enforced following a Coastal Compliance Notice issued by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment.
Frustrated by the prolonged ban, members of the fishing community have demanded clearer communication from city officials.
“We would like to know if it’s that dangerous. What’s the level of E. coli in the water, and how long will it take for the E. coli to subside?” questioned a local fisherman.
Kamal Singh, a representative of the Blue Lagoon Angling Crew, says the ban is taking a heavy toll on fishing clubs and families who depend on fishing as a source of income.
“The piers that are open—Snake Park, Battery Beach, and Country Club—are too small. They can't accommodate everyone. If the other three piers were open, it would be manageable. But they’ve been closed for months, and it’s not legal to fish there, so we can’t access them,” Singh explained.
The eThekwini Municipality maintains that the closure is a necessary safety measure and will remain in effect until water quality improves to acceptable public health standards.
While some recreational fishing remains allowed at limited locations, the lack of space and ongoing restrictions are leaving many anglers increasingly concerned about their livelihoods.