Lumley Beach Overwhelmed by Waste: A Call for Public Cooperation

Lumley Beach, a popular recreational spot, is currently facing a severe environmental crisis. Massive deposits of plastic waste, heavy debris, and natural Sargassum seaweed have accumulated along its shores, posing a significant challenge to authorities and beach users alike. 

The immediate cause of this overflow can be attributed to the failure of a crucial net installed by the Propel Organisation and Engineers Without Borders. This net, strategically placed at the Juba and Kaningo Creek axis, was designed to trap dirt and prevent it from flowing into the ocean. However, the sheer volume of incoming plastic waste and heavy debris proved too much, causing the net to break and unleash a torrent of pollutants onto the beach.

In response to this escalating problem, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and the National Tourist Board (NTB) have been working tirelessly. In collaboration with beach bar operators, the NTB has initiated extensive clearing operations, diligently disposing of waste in designated landfills. Despite these concerted efforts, the sheer volume of garbage continues to overwhelm their capacity.

Adding to the complexity, the public is advised to anticipate the natural occurrence of Sargassum (seaweed) during this period. This natural phenomenon, combined with the existing pile of dirt, creates an even more formidable challenge for beach maintenance.

Authorities are issuing a public warning: residents and beach users should prepare for this environmental challenge to persist over the next three months, from July to October 2025, coinciding with the end of the rainy season.

As efforts to maintain a clean beach and a smart environment intensify, the Ministry and NTB are appealing to the general public, especially beach users, to acknowledge the severity of the situation and cooperate with ongoing cleaning initiatives. Furthermore, individuals, institutions, and organizations—both public and private—are strongly encouraged to lend their support to these critical cleaning efforts. 

The future of Lumley Beach depends on collective action and a shared commitment to environmental responsibility.