Mossel Bay and Western Cape agree on Diaz Beach erosion measures

The Western Cape Government and Mossel Bay Municipality have reached an agreement to implement interim emergency measures to combat severe coastal erosion at Diaz Beach. To address immediate risks to public infrastructure, properties, and safety, the municipality has proposed installing geotextile sandbags to stabilize the dunes and prevent further collapse.

While these sandbags serve as a temporary measure to mitigate danger, officials emphasized that they are not a permanent fix. The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning noted that long-term coastal management solutions will be determined through an ongoing Basic Assessment process. Officials cautioned that poorly designed protection measures can inadvertently disrupt natural sand movement, potentially leading to beach narrowing or further erosion.