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Zandvlei waterbody closed to public until further notice

The closure of the waterbody is a precautionary measure following water quality concerns. The closure applies to all aquatic sections of the Zandvlei Nature Reserve.Muizenberg beachgoers are also advised to swim and surf at least 150 meters from the Zandvlei stormwater outlet. Warning signage on the beach will remain in place until further notice.The City of Cape Town has undertaken water quality testing at various points within the Zandvlei waterbody after recent sewage spills that entered the vlei. The test results showed high levels of faecal coliforms (Escherichia coli) within the waterbody, which indicate an elevated risk to human health. The public is therefore advised to avoid all contact with the water at Zandvlei until these levels are within national recreational water use guidelines. The high E. coli count is a result of recent sewage spills, which occurred due to pump failure at the Clifton Road pump station. Observations on site indicate that foreign objects in the sewer line were likely the main cause of the fault. A replacement pump was installed by Monday morning, which has reportedly stopped the overflow, however, the City is waiting for water quality tests to confirm swimming is safe again before reopening the vlei and removing warning signage at Muizenberg. We will continue monitoring the water quality and anticipate an improvement in the levels in due course.In the meantime, signage has been erected advising visitors not to utilise the waterbody for any form of recreation. The public will be informed once the waterbody is safe again for recreational use. The closure does not prohibit access to the Zandvlei Nature Reserve and other visitor facilities in the area.The City apologises for any inconvenience and wants to thank the public in advance for their cooperation during this period. End

2021-05-24T22:00:00Z

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