BUENOS AIRES – Recent developments have raised alarm as a stream in the densely populated suburbs near Buenos Aires has dramatically changed color to a deep crimson, leading to suspicions of industrial waste discharge. Residents began sharing alarming images of the Sarandí stream, located close to Villa Inflamable in Avellaneda, a municipality known for its tanneries and industries that process animal hides into leather with the use of various chemicals.

Local resident María Ducomls recounted her shock upon waking up to overwhelming odors from a nearby hazardous waste incinerator. “At 5:30 a.m., the air was filled with harmful emissions from an incineration facility,” she reported. After taking note of the stream’s alarming transformation, she remarked, “It resembles a stream of blood; we’ve never witnessed anything like it before.”

Municipal authorities believe the stream is contaminated with aniline, a dangerous chemical frequently used in dyes and pharmaceuticals. After gathering samples from the water, officials have initiated a formal complaint to the infrastructure and public services ministry of Buenos Aires province. This complaint is expected to prompt an investigation into the disturbing discoloration of the waterway.

Community members have pointed out that the stream has displayed a myriad of unusual hues over the years, including gray, green, violet, blue, and brown, often accompanied by a slick film on the surface. Residents have been voicing their concerns about local industries since the 1990s, with numerous allegations of environmental mismanagement still pending review. The ongoing situation highlights a broader issue of industrial pollution and its impact on local communities and ecosystems.