Ombudsman Addresses Odor and High Energy Cost Complaints in Los Santos

The Ombudsman's office has intervened in Los Santos province to address pressing concerns from residents about pervasive foul odors and a significant increase in electricity costs. Ombudsman Ángela Russo led a working visit, accompanied by national and regional teams, to investigate reported sources of pollution, including the local landfill and the wastewater treatment lagoon in Las Tablas.

Residents have linked the intense and persistent smells to nearby pig and poultry farms, a local slaughterhouse, and the frequent transport of animals through main roads. They explained that the odors intensify during rainy days and high temperatures, with leachate from the facilities increasing. "We have come to talk with the residents about this issue that troubles them. Being surrounded by pig and chicken farms, and a slaughterhouse near the residences, the problem increases when it rains," stated Russo.

Community members in Santo Domingo suggested establishing peripheral routes for animal transport to prevent vehicles from passing through the town center, aiming to reduce the unpleasant odors. While acknowledging a decrease in odor intensity following previous inspections by other institutions, residents stressed the need for permanent solutions.

Beyond environmental complaints, residents also raised concerns about rising electricity costs. Russo noted that high electricity bills, particularly affecting low-income families, are a recurring issue in the region. "A woman with limited resources says her consumption bill arrived at $200. This is one of the recurring complaints in this region," the Ombudsman reported. The institution pledged to follow up on these cases and collaborate with authorities to determine the causes of the odors and review the electricity billing situations to protect citizens' rights.