Mysterious Red Canal Triggers Concerns Among Argentine Residents

The Sarandí canal in a Buenos Aires suburb transformed into a striking red hue, prompting investigations into its source. Local residents, fearing industrial pollution, report previous instances of discoloration, reflecting ongoing environmental concerns in the area.

In a startling incident that has left residents of Buenos Aires on edge, the Sarandí canal in a suburban area of Argentina’s capital underwent an alarming transformation on Thursday, turning a vivid red. Images circulating on social media show the unnaturally colored water flowing towards the Rio de la Plata, which is adjacent to an ecological reserve, raising significant environmental concerns.

Local reports indicate that the changing color of the water may be linked to illegal dumping, potentially involving textile dyes or chemical runoff from nearby industrial facilities. The Environment Ministry has promptly responded, collecting water samples from the canal to identify the cause behind this unexpected phenomenon. By late afternoon, witnesses observed that the intensity of the water's color had diminished, though suspicions linger about industrial negligence.

Residents have voiced their fears regarding the safety of their environment, suggesting that numerous local businesses, including leather processing plants and textile factories, might be responsible for disposing of hazardous waste into the Sarandí canal. Silvia, a nearby resident, articulated her concern to C5N, recalling how the water had previously appeared yellow with a nauseating acidic smell.

Another local, Maria Ducomls, shared similar observations with AFP, describing a history of bizarre color changes in the water, including shades of blue, green, pink, and lilac, often accompanied by a greasy film on the surface. This incident has reignited discussions about environmental protections in the region amid ongoing debates surrounding industrial regulations and their enforcement.