An appraisal of sewage pollution along a section of the Natal coast

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Abstract
SUMMARY: A bacteriological survey was made on the distribution and occurrence of coliforms and pathogenic indicators of pollution within the surf-zone and near-shore waters along a section of the Natal Coast, prior to the use of submarine outfalls. The distance covered measured approximately 47 miles. The waters sampled and assessed ranged from ‘clean’ beaches to heavily polluted areas; a single short run off an Eastern Cape coastal region was included for comparative purposes. In all cases, the bacteriological picture was related to sanitary features on the shore. The method is based on Escherichia coli I counts, parasite units, staphylococci, salmonellas and salinity, and provides an objective approach to the assessment of any future changes in water quality consequent on development.