Officials Identify Source of Foul Odour Affecting Johannesburg

Posted on March 12, 2026
by Yashmika Dukaran


Authorities in Gauteng say they have traced the cause of a persistent “rotten-egg” smell affecting parts of Johannesburg.

Residents reported the unpleasant odour since the weekend, prompting investigations by environmental and health officials. According to authorities, the smell is linked to polluted air moving from the Highveld Priority Area and industrial sites in Mpumalanga.

Data indicates that Johannesburg has experienced unhealthy levels of pollutants in recent years. Environmental experts warn that air pollution in the province contributes to approximately 16,000 deaths annually in Gauteng.

Authorities are urging residents to take precautions and are monitoring air quality to address the ongoing public health concern.