Article re-cap
- Residents near the Astron Energy refinery in Bloubergstrand reported headaches, burning eyes, and throat irritation following a large flare on June 13th.
- A large flare was visible from suburbs including Table View, Parklands, Milnerton, and as far as Melkbosstrand.
- Astron Energy stated the flare was due to an upset in one of its process units.
Residents near the Astron Energy refinery in Bloubergstrand reported headaches, burning eyes, and throat irritation following a large flare on June 13th. The incident has reignited long-standing concerns about the refinery’s impact on local communities.
A large flare was visible from suburbs including Table View, Parklands, Milnerton, and as far as Melkbosstrand. This caused widespread concern among residents who shared their experiences on social media. According to the report, many individuals experienced burning eyes and headaches following the event.
Residents described a strong paraffin-like smell that spread across a wide area after the flare. Several people noted it was not the first time they had witnessed unusual activity at the refinery. Some recalled memories of the 2020 refinery explosion and fire.
Astron Energy stated the flare was due to an upset in one of its process units. The company confirmed safety systems were activated, leading to gases being safely burned off through the flare system. They highlighted this as a standard part of their operational procedures.
The flare is designed to burn off excess gases during disruptions or emergencies. Astron acknowledged community concerns and apologized for any inconvenience caused by increased noise and odours. The company emphasized its commitment to safe operations.
Frequently asked questions
What caused the large flare that affected residents near Bloubergstrand?
The flare was a result of an upset in one of Astron Energy’s process units, which is a standard part of their operational procedures designed to safely burn off excess gases during disruptions or emergencies.
Which areas were affected by the visible flare?
The large flare was visible from suburbs including Table View, Parklands, Milnerton, and as far as Melkbosstrand. Residents in these locations reported experiencing the associated health issues following the event.
What specific symptoms did residents report?
Residents described experiencing burning eyes and headaches after witnessing the flare. Many also noted throat irritation, alongside the strong smell of paraffin that spread across a wide area surrounding the refinery in Bloubergstrand.
Has this type of incident happened before?
Several residents recalled previous unusual activity at the refinery, including memories of the 2020 refinery explosion and fire. This has reignited long-standing concerns about the refinery’s impact on local communities.
What action did Astron Energy take during the flare?
Astron Energy confirmed that safety systems were activated, leading to gases being safely burned off through the flare system. This is a standard part of their operational procedures designed to manage disruptions and emergencies.
What response did Astron Energy give to community concerns?
Astron Energy acknowledged community concerns and apologized for any inconvenience caused by increased noise and odours, emphasizing its commitment to safe operations in the area surrounding Bloubergstrand.
Source: ewn.co.za
