The CoE has confirmed it has committed R6 million towards repairing and maintaining five of its 10 air-quality monitoring stations to address the persistent foul odour plaguing parts of Alberton and Ekurhuleni for years.

Alongside this investment, it has rolled out 18 low-cost air-monitoring sensors to improve data accuracy while repairs continue; a move aimed at restoring public confidence and responding to growing health concerns from residents affected by the long-standing smell.

Residents say the stench, often described as smelling like gas, burning tyres or sulphur, worsens at night and during early mornings, leaving many with irritated airways, headaches and breathing difficulties.

WATCH: Toxic smell threatens residents’ lives, animals near Alberton Dam

Anex Roux, a resident who reported the issue to the DEMS earlier this year, said the smell has persisted for over six years.

“We’ve been promised action before, but nothing changes,” Anex said.

City confirms investment and new monitoring rollout

City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed that a tender process is underway to secure a maintenance contractor and that the city is sourcing additional funds for the remaining five stations.

The spokesperson continued, “The low-cost sensors will help us maintain continuous air-quality data collection, even as we complete upgrades on our larger stations. We have also done security assessments to prevent future vandalism and will install security equipment at all monitoring sites,” he said.

Broader context and criticism

The city’s response follows criticism from MPL Michael Waters, who recently raised the alarm over Gauteng’s failing air-monitoring infrastructure, warning that millions of residents are playing Russian roulette with their health because of unreliable data and a lack of accountability.

However, the CoE has dismissed claims of financial constraints halting maintenance and emphasised that its environmental monitoring programme remains funded and active.

As the city works to restore its monitoring network and strengthen community engagement through environmental awareness campaigns, many hope these new measures will finally bring relief and accountability to a community long burdened by polluted air.

WATCH: Frustrated Alberton residents call on Ekurhuleni to fast-track investigation into toxic odour