NGS Odour and Environmental Watch chairman Aresh Singh told IOL his inspection of the site found improper dumping of dead chickens and poultry waste on a farm situated between New Guelderland and the Dawnside area
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An illegal fertilizer operation in Stanger has led to a severe odour and fly infestation, prompting local authorities to take action against the responsible parties.
NGS Odour and Environmental Watch chairman Aresh Singh told IOL his inspection of the site found improper dumping of dead chickens and poultry waste on a farm situated between New Guelderland and the Dawnside area.
"This facility has been identified as a significant contributor to the severe odour and fly infestation affecting our community. Scientific research conducted via Electronic Nose technology has formally classified this site as one of the contributors to odour in the region.
"The current method of disposing of carcasses is extremely unhygienic. This practice poses a severe threat to the environment and the well-being of local animals, creating a hazardous biological situation," he explained.
Singh said coordinated action between the Ilembe District and KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs led to formal warnings issued to the owners, lessees and sublessees.
"This farm is leased by Gledhow Mill for sugarcane farming. The farmer has been instructed to adhere strictly to the original lease agreement, which permits only the planting of sugarcane on this land," he said.
Singh said the chicken carcasses and droppings have since been permanently removed from the site; however, the stench is still lingering.
"It will be there for a while, but it will disappear within a few days. There are still a lot of flies. This operation caused a lot of discomfort to residents and the CBD with bad odour and flies.
"All departments worked in sync to resolve this matter swiftly. We remain committed to protecting our environment and our residents," he said.