The Amigos del Mar Association appeals to readers to back a petition to have jet skis banned because of the noise and danger involved.
One thousand people have signed a petition calling for action against the increasing nuisance of jet-skis along the Costa Tropical.
La Herradura-Almunecar environmental association Amigos del Mar launched the campaign in response to the noise pollution and risk from inconsiderate jet-ski drivers endangering divers, swimmers and other beach goers, as well as disturbing aquatic life.
The continuous noise is affecting thousands of residents and holiday makers who want to enjoy tranquillity in their homes and apartments. One resident said: “We love this place but the noise has become intolerable on weekends with the jet-skis racing around for hours. Why aren’t they banned on our Blue Flag beaches?”
The petition was launched in May and continues to gain momentum as the holiday season gets underway. A 2020 survey of local residents and businesses, also conducted by Amigos del Mar, confirmed that jet-skis were a major concern even then, with the potential to cause serious damage to the local tourist economy.
Association Amigos del Mar Costa Tropical (AADMCT) founder Anne Zipse said: “Jet-skis have made our beaches a hell on weekend afternoons, and it’s only June. The authorities know about the problem but they are simply not doing anything about it. Let’s take action before a fatal accident. And before the area gets a bad name for being noisy and insecure.”
By law, it is the Civil Guard Maritime Service that is responsible for marine safety and upholding jet-ski regulations on the water. However, given their few available resources divided up into a large number or responsibilities, they cannot keep up with the amount of illegal jet ski conduct, typically speeding within 200 metres of the shore.
In light of this, the petition is calling on the Almunecar City Council to take action and ban jet skis from municipal boat ramps, given its authority and responsibility for what happens on its beaches.
“We want elected leaders to use their authority to restore safety and tranquillity to our waters and beaches,” says Ms Zipse.
Contact Information: info@amigosdelmar.info
(Reader’s Letter/Jet Skis)
I may not be a marine expert, but I would imagine that there is a great deal of marine life that is adversely affected by the noise pollution and oil leakages emanating from jet skis, speedboats etc. The lack of dolphins seems to be irrelevant. Any unnecessary leisure activity that is damaging to the environment and potentially dangerous to humans should surely be banned.
I hate jet skiing but a total ban is not the right approach. Probably the simplest/clearest way is to assign one of two beaches for those who want to buzz around
I say ban Ka Ka in the bathing areas. Not good for the gut or health.
I cannot believe that in this day and age effulant is still coming from large villages and new builds. Straight into the Rio’s and sea. It’s really not on as more and more move here. !!
There are about six that come out to play at Salobrena from the far end of the beach area near the boat yard. Race from there to the rock and Into the bay by La Guardia.
Now I don’t know what aquatic life they disturb. Anymore then myself on my kayak. If I saw a dolphin I’d be honoured.
But they are the 125s or larger m/b of the sea. With a maybe non caring attitude.
Of course we’d all love peace and quite. But where do petitions stop. The music into the early hours of the fun fair by the bus depot or beach area. Carry up to where I live. The dogs that bark if I burp or worse.
Disliking something and quoating health and safety. Stops a relativally small amount of people in the summer months enjoying their free time. (Paragliding.)
Yes there are sadly incidents. But taken that so many people are in an area that is non too large. Then we are maybe lucky. Although I think, is it surf kiting?? might bring you , if out of control due to winds. Closer to the sunbathing persons and or buildings!!?? Where do we stop?
The cyclists that should be in single file. But double up to chat as they peddle madly. The motor bikers that enjoy the bends and hills. If we are talking safety issues. Then both groups do at times come unstuck. But do we ban them?