UPDATE: 2025/12/19 – 16:30

VEREENIGING. – Global chemicals and energy company Sasol has denied that its operations are responsible for the ammonia-like smell reported across parts of the Vaal Triangle in recent days, as authorities continue to investigate the source of the odour.

Residents in areas including Meyerton, Vereeniging and Sasolburg have complained of a strong smell, commonly described as similar to cat urine, with some reporting a visible haze or thick cloud in the air.

In a written response to Midvaal Local Municipality councillor Salome Janse van Rensburg, Sasol said it had conducted an internal investigation following community complaints and confirmed that the smell was not linked to its operations.

“Following reports from the community, Sasol conducted an internal investigation to determine whether the source of the odour could be linked to our operations,” the company said. “We can confirm that the unpleasant smell does not originate from Sasolburg or Natref operations. Furthermore, there have been no chemical or gas releases from either site in recent days that could result in such an odour.”

Sasol said it remains committed to the safety of its employees, the environment and surrounding communities, and would continue to monitor the situation.

Residents who wish to report environmental concerns directly to the company may contact Sasol’s odour emergency services on 016 960 3111.

Earlier this week, Ward 1 councillor Dalene Venter confirmed that the matter had been reported to Environmental Health, Disaster Management and Sedibeng District Municipality, which is responsible for environmental health services in the region.

While Sasol has ruled out its facilities as the source of the smell, authorities have not yet issued an official explanation for the odour, and investigations remain ongoing. Residents are urged to remain calm while the matter is being assessed, with further updates expected once more information becomes available.

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VEREENIGING – Residents across parts of the Vaal Triangle have raised concerns about a strong ammonia-like smell lingering in the air, with reports coming in from areas including Meyerton, Vereeniging and as far as Sasolburg.

The smell, commonly described by residents as similar to cat urine, has been noticeable over recent days and has prompted growing concern on community platforms. Despite the widespread reports, the source of the odour has not yet been identified.

Residents in Meyerton and Vereeniging reported experiencing the smell at different times, suggesting that the issue may be affecting a broader area rather than a single neighbourhood. Some residents also mentioned a visible haze or thick cloud in the air, adding to concerns about air quality.

On Thursday morning, Ward 1 councillor Dalene Venter of the Emfuleni Local Municipality informed residents that the matter has been formally reported to the relevant authorities. According to Venter, Environmental Health and Disaster Management have been notified and are attending to the situation.

“Hi everyone, regarding that ammonia cat pee smell that everyone is talking about. It has been reported to Environmental Management as well. Midvaal is also attending to the matter,” Venter said in a message to residents. “Environmental falls under Sedibeng so hopefully we will have an answer to the smell and this thick cloud hanging over the area. People as far as Sasolburg have been complaining.”

Sedibeng District Municipality oversees environmental health services in the region, and residents are awaiting further feedback once investigations are concluded.

Authorities have not yet issued an official explanation for the odour, and residents are encouraged to remain calm while the matter is being assessed. Further updates are expected once more information becomes available.