According to the Bathing Water Directive, the Environmental Health Directorate within the Superintendence of Public Health said that, as a precautionary measure, bathing is not recommended in Balluta Bay.

The cause of the sewage overflow has been identified and addressed immediately, a directorate statement said.

The incident resulted from a blockage in a secondary sewer line caused by material illegally disposed of by third parties, including sizeable stone blocks and other construction waste. The obstruction has since been removed under the supervision of Environmental Health Officers (EHO) and the Water Services Corporation.

A report regarding this case has been filed with the police, the directorate said.

The closure of the area is being maintained as a precautionary measure until EHOs complete all the necessary testing and assessments to confirm that bathing water quality has not been adversely affected.