The Phoenix Waste Water Treatment Works is allegedly causing a stink and eThekwini municipal officials are working around the clock to ensure that the foul odour emanating from the facility is addressed speedily and efficiently.

According to the municipality upgrade work at the Phoenix plant has resulted in excessive untreated sludge which is responsible for the offensive odour.

“To address the issue, various departments within the municipality have conducted an odour assessment and action items were developed and are being implemented,” the municipality said in a statement.

“These include the urgent removal of the excessive sludge while finalisation of the Phoenix Waste Water Treatment Works Municipal contract is in process. Odour control systems have been installed near the site and a mobile unit is also available,” it explained.

The municipality has advised residents that they may be subjected to malodours from time to time during the removal of sludge and while the plant upgrade proceeds.

“The municipality apologises to all affected members of the community and assures them that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure that the problem is speedily resolved,” the municipality concluded.