Fajtata Beach Closed Due To Sewage Leak Days After Earning Blue Flag Status
Fajtata beach in Marsascala received a prestigious Blue Flag award just this past Saturday, lauded for its “world-class standards in beach management, environmental education, safety, water quality and related services.” But by Monday, the celebration had come to an abrupt halt, as authorities closed the beach to swimming after foul water overflowed from nearby public toilets.
The Department of Information, quoting the Environmental Health Directorate, explained that untreated sewage could have contaminated the bathing area, posing a health risk to swimmers.
As a precaution, Environmental Health Officers are investigating the source of the leak, though no timeline has been set for reopening.
Warning signs are now in place, and officials have vowed to issue another advisory once water quality returns to safe levels.
This incident comes at a time when ten Maltese beaches and three in Gozo were awarded Blue Flags for 2025. The contrast between recognition and rapid closure has left local beachgoers frustrated, especially as summer begins.
Residents seeking updates can contact the Environmental Health Directorate between 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on 2133 7333, via email, the Directorate’s Facebook page, website or the EHD Bathing Portal.
In the meantime, anyone planning a beach outing near Qaliet Street is advised to steer clear of Fajtata until officials give the all-clear.
This unfolding situation highlights how even top-rated beaches can fall victim to infrastructure failures turning a weekend celebration into a public health concern in just a few days.
Keep an eye on official updates before heading down to Fajtata beach.
Photo: TVMnews
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