DA calls for investigation over suspected petrochemical air pollution in Pietermaritzburg

2 November 2023

The DA has written to the Green Scorpions to request an investigation into claims made by residents about the toxic air pollution emanating from FFS Refiners in Mason Hill, Pietermaritzburg, that has been affecting their health for many years (view letter here).

This follows the DA’s recent oversight visit to the area around FFS Refineries where we met with concerned residents. Residents revealed that the "petrochemical" smell, which they strongly suspect to be emanating from the refinery has been affecting the health of their communities for several years now.

The DA in Msunduzi will also be writing to the uMgungundlovu District Municipality representatives while, through our Provincial Legislature, also place pressure on uMgungundlovu & KZN’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) to revoke the license of industries found to be non-compliant.

We are in possession of numerous affidavits from community members complaining of alleged toxic air pollution that has resulted in multiple health complaints. We are also in possession of an e-nose report that Msunduzi Municipality commissioned which corroborates residents' complaints. The purpose of e-nose is to monitor odors linked to levels of air pollution.

The residents also complained that they have repeatedly requested intervention and transparency from Msunduzi Municipality, which is currently embroiled in a legal battle with FFS Refiners, but the residents say this has been without feedback or noticeable improvement in air quality.

Air quality in Pietermaritzburg has been a point of concern for years. Polluting industries must be held accountable for their emissions. Compliance with South Africa’s strict air quality legislation is non-negotiable. Government needs to step up its enforcement measures and ensure that repeat offenders are brought to task, and where compliance is perpetually flouted licenses must be reviewed and revoked.

The National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (39 of 2004) sets the legal framework for air quality standards in our country, and it is the duty of all industries to adhere to these regulations. Ignoring these standards is not just a breach of law; it is a breach of the trust that our communities place in industry and government to safeguard their health.

The DA holds the positions that residents of Msunduzi have the right of access to an environment that is not hazardous to their health and well-being, as supported by our constitution. We will continue to advocate for transparency and accountability for the residents of Pietermaritzburg.

Issued by Hannah Shameema Winkler, DA Midlands Constituency Head, 2 November 2023