CAPE TOWN – Swimming at Melkbosstrand Beach has officially resumed after a temporary closure due to a sewage spill over the weekend. The beach was reopened once water-quality tests confirmed it safe for recreational use, City Health confirmed toTygerBurger today.
The City of Cape Town had earlier halted swimming and water activities as a precaution after sewage entered coastal waters along the Melkbosstrand beachfront. Health and environmental officials were deployed to the site to assess conditions and monitor potential risks to beachgoers.
Cause of the spill
According to the City a wet well clean-out was conducted at the Ou Skip Main Pump Station early on Saturday and Sunday morning. During the process unforeseen circumstances led to an overflow at the 11th Avenue pump station, allowing sewage to flow into the sea.
“The pump-station team completed the clean-up operation and public health-warning signage was erected as a precautionary measure,” the City said at the time.
The beach remained closed until water samples complied with the National Coastal Water Quality Guidelines for recreational use as well as the City’s Sewage Spill Response Protocol.
Residents express concern
While many welcomed the swift action, local residents voiced frustration over recurring incidents.
Mariska van Zyl, a Melkbosstrand resident, said: “We’re so happy the beach is open again. It’s the heart of our community, and we’ve really missed our morning swims and walks along the shore.”
Andre Jacobs, a local angler, said: “I’m glad it’s reopened, but it’s still worrying. These spills shouldn’t be happening, and it makes you question how safe the water really is in the long run.”
Authorities thanked residents for their cooperation and adherence to the temporary ban, emphasising that public health remains the top priority.
Beachgoers are encouraged to stay informed through official City communication channels should conditions change.
