Angie de Beer, Melkbosstrand
The refinery in Milnerton is at it again, as if we don’t have enough pollution already.
On Friday (January 20), for almost the entire day, a horrible smell was hanging in the air, coming from the refinery.
What exactly is happening there?
Suzanne Pullinger, Astron Energy spokesperson responds:
We have noted reports on community forums and chat groups regarding an unsettling intermittent odour, which has affected a number of communities in Cape Town’s northern suburbs.
The odour, which has on occasion been described as smelling like exhaust fumes, petrol, cigarettes, and/or paint lacquer, has been noticeable since Thursday January 12.
Communities which have reported the odour include Sunningdale, Durbanville, Melkbosstrand and as far afield as Paarl.
Astron Energy can confirm that the smell does not originate from our refinery in Milnerton. We have been in contact with the City of Cape Town’s environmental health department, who have confirmed they are investigating another source.
For refinery-related queries, SMS the word “Info” to 30786.