To the City of Ekurhuleni, its Air Quality Officer and Environmental Health Services, and the relevant provincial and national environmental authorities.

We, the undersigned residents and supporters, call for an urgent, transparent investigation into recurring offensive odours affecting Alberton and surrounding communities.

Recent odours have resembled sewage and strong cat urine. Residents deserve to know what is causing these smells, what substances are present in the air, and whether repeated exposure presents a risk to our health.

The smell alone cannot establish the pollutants involved or their concentrations. Equally, the absence of clear information should not be treated as proof that the air is safe.

We are particularly concerned about the possible effects of repeated exposure over months and years, including risks to children, older residents and people with existing health conditions. Potentially serious health implications deserve proper investigation and a clear public explanation.

Section 24 of the Constitution protects everyone’s right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or wellbeing. We ask the responsible authorities to give practical effect to that right.

We call for:

1. A formal investigation into the source or sources. Assess potential sewage, waste, industrial and other contributors without assuming a cause before evidence is available.
2. Air-quality monitoring during actual odour events. Include affected residential areas and the times when smells are reported, including nights and early mornings. Qualified specialists should determine the appropriate tests, including whether hydrogen sulphide, ammonia, sulphur dioxide, particulate matter and other pollutants need monitoring.
3. An assessment of short- and long-term health risks. Consider the frequency, duration and concentration of exposure, possible pollutant mixtures and vulnerable residents.
4. Public access to findings. Publish sampling locations, dates, methods, results, relevant health benchmarks and limitations. Explain any monitoring gaps and what the available results can—and cannot—tell residents.
5. A corrective action plan. Where sources or breaches are identified, set out the remedial measures, responsible parties, enforcement steps and deadlines.
6. A clear reporting and accountability process. Appoint a named lead official, provide complaint reference numbers and issue regular public progress updates.
7. 
   

We request a written response within 30 calendar days of formal submission, setting out the investigation plan, responsible officials and proposed timetable. Any immediate hazard identified should be addressed urgently.

If adequate action is not forthcoming, we will consider further formal complaints and seek legal advice on the remedies available.

Our request is straightforward: investigate the source, establish the risks, publish the evidence and take appropriate action.

Alberton deserves clean air, clear answers and accountable action.