The Marine and Water Bureau (DSAMA) closed the city’s two beaches on Friday after a test by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) showed excessive E. coli levels in both beaches’ coastal waters.
Both Hac Sa (“Black Sand”) and Cheoc Van (“Bamboo Bay”) remained closed to the public yesterday.
A DSAMA statement on Friday said that IAM’s recent water quality testing found an excessive amount of E. coli (Escherichia coli) in the coastal waters at Hac Sa Beach and Cheoc Van Beach, adding that the Marine and Water Bureau has hoisted red flags and posted notices at the two beaches to remind members of the public not to swim there until further notice.
According to the statement, abnormal water quality at beaches usually occurs after heavy rainfall or inclement weather and may persist for a period of time.
The statement highlighted the Marine and Water Bureau’s commitment to closely monitoring the situation and urged all those who are planning to go to the city’s two beaches for water activities to pay close attention to the warning flags hoisted at the respective locations.
This handout photo provided by the Marine and Water Bureau (DSAMA) on Friday shows a red flag hoisted to warn beachgoers against swimming at Hac Sa Beach.
