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Safety at beachfront during festive season
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Date: 2024-11-19 11:18:42

Safety at beachfront during festive season

AS DURBAN gears up for the festive season, eThekwini Municipality is stepping up its efforts to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike with a series of strategic interventions. A substantial R5.4 million has been earmarked to enhance operational support along the central beachfront, a popular destination during the holiday period. These initiatives were presented at a recent Executive Committee meeting, with funds reprioritised from the Beachfront Management Office (BMO) within the Office of the Deputy City Manager – Economic Development and Planning. 

The BMO, active throughout the year in managing Durban’s iconic beachfront, takes on additional responsibilities over the festive season to accommodate an influx of visitors. Working closely with departments such as the Parks, Recreation, and Culture (PRC) Unit, the Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit, and the Metro Police, the BMO coordinates multiple activities and interventions, all aligned with the broader Festive Season Management Plan (FESMAC) led by the PRC Unit. This festive season, the BMO is introducing several key initiatives to improve safety and convenience for Durban’s beachfront visitors. A R750 000 investment in a crane truck will support traffic management before, during, and after peak periods, while a Parkand Ride service with R4.4 million allocated for operations and R2 million for security aims to reduce congestion and streamline access to the area. 

To enhance emergency response, R300 000 has been designated for a 24-hour ambulance and tow truck service along the promenade, ensuring quick aid for rescues and incidents that may occur. Additionally, R750 000 has been allocated to install ablution facilities at the Park-and-Ride site, and R200 000 will fund shower maintenance. Lastly, R200 000 is earmarked for essential repairs to manholes and paving, creating a safer beachfront experience for all. The comprehensive safety and support measures represents the City’s commitment to a troublefree festive season, aiming to create a welcoming environment for both locals and tourists. These investments are expected to provide a significant boost to local businesses, enhance the tourism sector, and reinforce Durban’s reputation as a world-class beachfront destination. The above report is subject to approval at the next sitting of Council.