a day ago
Residents erupt as entire Aussie suburb left smelling 'like a toilet' after major leak
Residents of an Australian suburb are complaining their local area "smells like a toilet" after a deluge of human waste began spreading through the area.
Aerial images show thousands of litres of human excrement pooling in a sports field in Perth's south, which has slowly run down to the popular tourist area of Fremantle, prompting authorities to plead with the public to avoid recreational activities like fishing.
The problem was caused by a burst sewer pipe in Beaconsfield four days ago. Dean Stacey, a spokesperson from the Water Corporation, explained the ongoing issue is "quite complex". The initial leak caused smaller and related overflows in neighbouring suburbs, which made their way into the Swan River, a major waterway.
"The repair in Spearwood is quite complex, instead of being able to weld a band around that pipeline, we're having to prefabricate a new section of pipeline,' he said.
While the leak has been stopped, authorities are now scrambling to custom-make new pipes to fix the spill.
After the pipe burst on Friday, residents reported a foul smell wafting from the leafy Perth suburb, Nine News reported.
"[I] went out to look and you could smell it," one resident said. Another said it "smells like a toilet."
Water Corporation has warned residents that it's expected to take "some time" to make the repairs.
'Given the complexity of the wastewater network, there remains a risk of further localised overflows," it said. "As repairs progress, the public is asked to avoid affected areas. Warning signage, security, and barricades are in place for the community's protection."
Water Corporation is working with the WA Department of Health, Department of Water and Environmental Regulation and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation to ensure public safety.
'In the event of contact with any residual wastewater, wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water and disinfect any surfaces exposed to wastewater,' it said.
If locals begin to feel unwell or experience symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and nausea, seek medical advice.
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