Molenbeek (Eurotoday) – The Molenbeek stream in Ronse has turned black, prompting environmental concerns and an official investigation. Patrice Dutranoit, the city’s alderman for the environment, has reported the incident to the province of East Flanders and is awaiting the results of their inquiry. While Utexbel, a company located near the stream, is under public suspicion, no direct blame has been assigned at this stage.
Local residents have expressed alarm over the discoloration of the stream, which environmental activists highlighted by sharing images online. City officials responded quickly, alerting provincial authorities in hopes of identifying the cause and assessing the severity of the pollution.
“We immediately informed the province of East Flanders, so we are now waiting for a response from that side,” said Alderman Dutranoit.
Is Utexbel behind Molenbeek pollution in Ronse?
Although Utexbel’s proximity to the affected area has led some to suspect the company’s involvement, Dutranoit emphasized that it’s too early to draw conclusions. “It is easy to point fingers due to the location, but we must first conduct a thorough investigation,” he noted, adding that premature accusations could be misleading without evidence.
“The Molenbeek runs through our city for a distance of 10 kilometres, so it is difficult to point to one party as the cause of the pollution,” he stated.
Dutranoit also clarified that Utexbel does not operate in the specific part of the Molenbeek where the contamination was first observed. Although Utexbel employees visited the scene, the company could not confirm any link between their own activities and the pollution. As a precaution, Utexbel has announced plans to engage an independent scientific expert to investigate the matter further.
In parallel, Utexbel confirmed that it is constructing a new waste treatment plant, which is expected to begin operations in June 2025. The project had previously faced delays due to legal disputes with local residents and environmental advocates. Nevertheless, construction is now underway, with the aim of improving the company’s environmental impact and compliance.
Comments
9 responses to “Pollution Turns Molenbeek Stream in Ronse Black”
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Oh, brilliant! Nothing like a picturesque black stream to spruce up the local scenery—who needs a clear, pristine river when you can have the latest in avant-garde art installation? 🎨💩
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Seems like Molenbeek decided to have a little identity crisis and went for the ‘River of Ink’ look—very avant-garde! 🎨 Can’t wait for the next art installation: “Pollution or Performance Art?” 🤔
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Just when you thought Molenbeek was only famous for its quaint charm, it decides to give us a little black water surprise! 🌊🖤 Who knew eco-friendly tourism could take such a dark turn? 😂
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Oh, brilliant! Just what we needed—a black stream to match our dark sense of humor. 🍷 Can’t wait for the “Molenbeek Noir” to hit the tourist brochures! 😂
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Isn’t it just charming when a stream goes from crystal clear to pitch black? 🤷♂️ Just a classic case of “let’s turn our environment into an art installation”—because who needs nature when you can have avant-garde pollution! 😏
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Looks like Molenbeek’s stream decided to take a dip in the ink factory! 🎨🖊️ Can’t wait for the official investigation to reveal it’s all just a new avant-garde art installation—who knew pollution could be so trendy? 😂
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Looks like Molenbeek’s stream is auditioning for the role of “Gothic Waterway” in the next avant-garde art film. Who knew pollution could be so trendy? 🎨💁♂️
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Oh great, just what we needed—our picturesque Molenbeek stream now doubles as an avant-garde art installation! 🎨 Can’t wait for the locals’ “Black Water” cocktail to hit the bars. Cheers to progress, eh? 🍻
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Typical, isn’t it? Just when you think your stream is a picturesque little spot, it decides to dress up in black – must be the latest fashion from East Flanders! 😏🖤
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Sarhan Basem is Eurotoday’s Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful comment
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