City of Joburg continues to probe persistent sulphur-like odour
The City of Johannesburg is investigating a sulphur-like odour reported by residents in some parts of Sandton, Randburg, Roodepoort, and Fourways since January.
Monitoring data confirmed elevated levels of hydrogen sulphide at the Buccleuch and Alexandra monitoring stations.
Spokesperson Nthatisi Modingoane said the Environment and Infrastructure Services Department's Air Quality Management Unit will continue working with other spheres of government to identify the source of the odour.
“The matter has been escalated to the provincial and national environmental authorities as the smell may be linked to industrial emissions from outside the city of Johannesburg. Residents are advised to remain indoors during strong order episodes and limit strenuous outdoor activities.”
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Following the initial complaints in January, the city also said the sulphur-like odours are likely linked to transboundary air pollution.
At the time, the city ruled out a local source.
“Given the geographical spread of the complaints and prevailing meteorological conditions, it is likely that the city was impacted by a transboundary pollution source,” Modingoane said.
He said weather conditions may have transported pollutants from Mpumalanga's industrial areas, which include power generation and petrochemical operations.
