Mass Fish Kill at uMhlali River Forces KwaDukuza Beach Closures as Pollution Investigation Underway

A sudden environmental crisis has struck KwaZulu-Natal’s north coast after thousands of fish were found dead and washed up at the uMhlali River mouth, forcing the temporary closure of popular swimming and recreational areas.

To protect public health and the environment, the uMhlali River mouth at Tinley Manor Beach and the Shaka’s Cove Tidal Pool in Salt Rock were shut temporarily until further notice.

The fish kill, first observed on Thursday, prompted the KwaDukuza Municipality to issue a closure notice while an investigation into the cause of the pollution is underway.

Municipal manager Nhlanhla Mdakane said the precautionary measure was necessary to safeguard public health and protect the environment.

“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,” Mdakane said.

In the meantime, members of the public are urged to refrain from swimming, entering the water, fishing, or collecting marine life. Children and pets should be kept away from the affected areas until authorities confirm conditions are safe.

Privi Makhan, caucus leader for the Democratic Alliance in KwaDukuza, said incidents like this put fragile ecosystems at risk.

“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 comprehensive water testing and environmental assessments currently underway and stressed that clear, verified updates must be provided to the public.

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

The fish kill follows a similar pollution incident reported on Wednesday (January 28) when an estuary and the Isiphingo River Mouth, south of Durban, was contaminated by sewage. A damaged wastewater pipe on Prospecton Road, compounded by a cable theft at the Isiphingo Beach wastewater pump station, resulted in the death of hundreds of fish in the nearby estuary.

Authorities say the affected areas will only be reopened once water quality tests confirm it is safe for public use.

DAILY NEWS