For over a decade, residents of Greenwich Town in south-west St Andrew, Jamaica, have endured the relentless stench and health risks emanating from the local sewage facility. The National Water Commission (NWC) has now reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the issue, though progress remains slow and challenges persist. In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer, NWC’s Acting Corporate Public Relations Manager, Delano Williams, outlined ongoing efforts to mitigate the problem, including reconfiguring truck offloading areas to reduce odour and improve efficiency. Williams explained that a more enclosed receptacle for waste dumping is being designed to prevent odour from escaping into the air, with the project currently in the procurement phase. Additionally, the Central Wastewater Treatment Company (CWTC) will conduct a comprehensive air quality analysis, including testing near schools, to establish benchmarks and measure improvements. Recent upgrades have reportedly reduced sewage overflow risks and persistent malodours, while fence repairs and dust mitigation work are underway. However, unauthorised access to the facility and improper disposal practices by some truck operators continue to exacerbate the issue. Williams called for a coordinated response among stakeholders to address these challenges. The NWC’s assurances come after years of frustration from residents, who have long complained about the facility’s proximity to schools and its impact on daily life. Educators have particularly highlighted the vulnerability of children to the health risks posed by the odour. Williams acknowledged the tension caused by wastewater facilities near residential areas but reiterated the NWC’s commitment to improving conditions. Despite promises made over the years, including a 2015 pledge to enclose the facility and a 2022 commitment to erect boundaries, the odour problem persists. As of 2025, residents remain hopeful but skeptical, waiting for tangible improvements to their quality of life.
