Stench in Alberton suburbs sparks health concerns, residents demand action

A lingering odour that has plagued parts of Alberton for years is again in the spotlight as frustrated residents call on the city to launch a thorough investigation into the ongoing air quality concern.

According to residents, the smell has been an issue for over six years, with no lasting solution in sight. They describe the odour as resembling gas, burning tyres or sulphur, which worsens during the night and early mornings.

An initial site visit on October 26, 2019, by Swazi Zulu from the CoE Fire Department failed to determine the source of the smell.

Since then, complaints have persisted across various suburbs, with residents reporting health issues, including stomachaches, irritated airways, breathing difficulties and a burning sensation in the nose, eyes and throat.

Resident Anex Roux said she had reported the matter to the disaster management department on February 26.

“They took note and said they needed equipment to detect the source of the odour. They promised to contact our company director once the smell resurfaced, but we’ve heard nothing since,” Roux told the Alberton Record.

Tanja Petzer, another concerned resident, added, “My eight-year-old son is constantly sick because of this dirty air. The government isn’t covering any of the medical expenses; I’m the one paying for it. They care more about overcharging us on rates and taxes than delivering proper services.”

Tracy Frauendorf echoed the frustration, “My concern isn’t just the smell; it’s far greater. I’m worried about the health of my family and the broader Alberton community. My airways are constantly irritated. There must be a connection between what I’m experiencing and the air quality here.”

Resident Paulette Ellis, who has lived in the area since 1997, said, “I’ve complained countless times. I’ve been told the smell comes from Sasol or the abattoir, or even as far as Vereeniging and Alrode.”

Ward 94 Clr Samantha Nair confirmed she is aware of the complaints.

“Residents have raised this issue for the past three months. I reported it to the environmental department, and while they said an investigation is underway, it’s difficult to pinpoint the source when the smell is in the air and there is no incriminating evidence.”

Izak Berg of the Independent Ratepayers Association of South Africa weighed in on the matter, noting that while investigations are underway, resolving odour issues isn’t straightforward.

“Maybe something I need to clarify is that odour smell is a complex issue that can take a while to resolve. Odour is difficult to quantify, subjective and often influenced by environmental conditions. Additionally, we do not have legislated backup to resolve odour complaints; it’s a matter of treating it as a nuisance and addressing it with the alleged transgressor,” said Berg.

He added that he monitors areas like the Alberton Dam.

“I pass by the Alberton Dam often and report to the health department when there’s a smell.”

The Alberton Record contacted the city for a comment. Spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed the city would investigate the matter.

We will provide updates once the city shares further communication.