Authorities still trying to trace source of medical waste on Durban beaches

Authorities still trying to trace source of medical waste on Durban beaches

eThekwini Municipality says while a probe continues into the medical waste that landed up on several of the city's beaches two weeks ago, it does not believe a big pharmaceutical waste company, a hospital or clinic was responsible.

Durban beaches closed due to clean up
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The city says the waste washed up as a result of the heavy rains earlier this month.


Among the beaches affected were those around the south of the uMngeni River Mouth, Virginia Bush, Suncoast Beach, the Beachwood/Mangrove area as well as Glenashley.


Antiretroviral drugs, medication for hypertension, heart failure and TB as well as condoms were among the waste found. 


However, authorities say no syringes were found in the debris.


They say clean-up operations are still underway, adding that there are a few leads on the where the waste could have come from.


A report is expected to be handed to the city's Executive Committee upon completion of the probe.


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