In New Zealand, a problem at a sewage plant near the capital led to residents falling ill

Unusual – A smell so unbearable that it makes you sick. This is what residents of Lower Hutt, New Zealand, had to endure for almost two months. This comes from a wastewater treatment plant where work is currently underway to change biofilters, the facilities that allow wastewater to be treated. The offensive odors are what earned Wellington Water and Veolia a hefty fine.

As reported by Al-Youm newspaper. New Zealand HeraldMore than 100 complaints were submitted during the period from October 31 to December 12, regarding this unpleasant odor. It is this approach that prompted the Wellington Regional Council to impose fines on Wellington Water, its operator Veolia and the city councils of Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt; All for a total of 70,000 New Zealand dollars (about 40,000 euros).

City Council member calls for “stopping defecation”

Although the replacement of the biofilters should be completed by mid-February, residents will have to endure the odor for several more weeks. So, in an effort to reduce the stench, a Lower Haute city councilor called on residents to do so “Stop pooping”This is a joke that was not well received by the people, according to what I reported guardian.

Especially since the city is scheduled to host the hip-hop festival Juicy Fest next January 5. Thousands of people are expected to go there to attend concerts by dozens of artists, including Ashanti, T-Pain and T.I. as the headliners. But this influx worries residents who fear it will make matters worse.

Therefore, the city mayor tried to reassure them and announced that the possible increase in wastewater inputs was related to the festival “It won't make any difference to the odor problem.” However, nothing is planned at the moment. The authorities especially hope that by then the wind will blow in the other direction and carry the smell with it.

See also on HuffPost :