Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand, residents will receive financial assistance from the city council due to odor from the city’s fire-damaged wastewater plant.
According to Stuff, twin trickling filters at the wastewater plant are full of rotting organic matter that emit odors after rain falls into them. Staff reported that ongoing emissions of potentially explosive gases could be dangerous if covered with filters to reduce the odor, reported Stuff.
According to Stuff, households in the east have dealt with the odor since the Bromley plant was damaged, to the point where it is unsustainable to open windows or spend time outside.
A preferred option by the city council will be finalized before it is presented publicly at a council meeting on May 26.
Mayor Lianne Dalziel said councilors support providing financial aid, according to Stuff, which would include “partnering with community organizations to set up four locations where people could explain what help they would like.”
“We will meet some of those additional costs that people have identified,” said Mayor Lianne Dalziel, reported Stuff.
Additional support would include a paid trip to the doctor or help to pay power bills from using dehumidifiers and fans.
Residents are dealing with the odor for another four months.
According to Bromley School principal Scot Kinley, reported Stuff, he spoke with the council and the Ministry of Education about supporting the school and community, which would entail: “purchasing air purifiers in classrooms; technicians sampling the air; washing the school buildings more regularly; resources for indoor games; and taking children out for special days.”
