VEREENIGING – Residents across the Vaal Triangle are still reporting a persistent stench resembling cat urine, with sightings now coming from as far as Springs, Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Heidelberg.

The odour, first noted in December, continues to affect daily life, causing nasal irritation, headaches, and respiratory discomfort.

Although initial complaints prompted local authorities to investigate, the source of the odour remains unknown.

Global chemicals and energy company Sasol has previously denied any link to its operations, after confirming that there had been no chemical or gas releases at its plants that could account for the smell.

Residents are expressing frustration as the odour lingers weeks after initial reports.

Social media posts have amplified the concern, urging affected communities to lodge formal complaints with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) via the Environmental Crimes & Incidents Hotline at 0800 205 005 or email envirocrime@dffe.gov.za.

In a joint Facebook video, Midvaal councillors Phil Pretorius and Salome Janse van Rensburg addressed the issue, acknowledging that the odour is not confined to the local area.

“Reports indicate the smell is being detected well beyond Midvaal, including Springs, Pretoria, and Johannesburg,” Pretorius said.

Janse van Rensburg added that while internal checks and communications with Natref and other authorities have been conducted, a clear explanation for the odour is still pending.

The continued spread of the odour has heightened concerns about air quality and public health, prompting calls for increased transparency and urgent action.

Residents are urged to formally report incidents to ensure that authorities take definitive steps toward identifying and addressing the source of the pollution.