Maur: A human story amid environmental emergency

In 1990 the inhabitants of Mare Chicose were initially relocated when it became a landfill. At the time, the government deemed it necessary to move some families living near the proposed landfill site to minimise direct exposure to waste-related pollution and odours. However, despite the relocation of some residents, many people still live in the broader vicinity of the landfill. Over the years, concerns have escalated regarding the environmental impact of the site, including toxic gas emissions, water contamination and potential underground fires, posing significant health risks to those still living nearby. The tranquil community of Mare Chicose is now a ghost village.

Mauritius has become the centre of an alarming environmental and public health crisis. Toxic gases, including dioxins and methane, are polluting the air and water, making life unbearable for residents and threatening their health. Coupled with the possibility of an underground fire, the situation demands urgent attention and decisive action.

Dioxins, among the most toxic chemicals to human health, are most probably being released into the environment from the Mare Chicose landfill. These pollutants, byproducts of industrial processes and waste incineration, can cause severe respiratory issues and developmental problems. In addition to air pollution, water contamination from the landfill leachate has raised concerns about long-term impacts on the local ecosystem and the health of the surrounding communities. Residents have been complaining about sore throats, persistent coughs and a sensation of dry nose. Gender Links Mauritius contacted a doctor, who stated that the impact of the smoke and gases, can cause serious harm to the health of people residing in the vicinity. The doctor advised against over-the-counter medications and urged residents especially those with existing issues such as asthma, bronchitis and fibrosis to seek medical attention. Symptoms may vary from dry, wet, acute or chronic coughs, respiratory problems which may require chest x-ray for better diagnosis. People who have been exposed to the gases for a longer eriod may experience respiratory problems, caused by inflammation of airways or lungs.

The residents of Mare Chicose and the surrounding villages Cluny, Union Park, Nouvelle France live in a constant state of fear and uncertainty. Breathing in toxic air, consuming potentially contaminated water and watching helplessly as their environment deteriorates has left many in despair. The area’s children, elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of this toxic exposure.

The environmental crisis at Mare Chicose and its surrounding villages reveals not only ecological and health challenges but also the profound gendered impacts of such disasters. Women in these communities often bear the brunt of the crisis, as they are disproportionately involved in managing household responsibilities, caring for children, and tending to the sick, all tasks that become exponentially harder when faced with polluted air, contaminated water and the threat of toxic exposure. Gender roles in these areas amplify the vulnerability of women, who must navigate the dual burden of environmental degradation and social expectations while advocating for the safety and well-being of their families.

Local Members of Parliament (MPs) and environmental activists have stepped forward, drawing attention to the plight of these residents and demanding immediate action. Their efforts have been critical in amplifying the voices of a community that feels overlooked and abandoned.

Given the magnitude of the crisis, many are questioning whether Mauritius is in a state of environmental emergency. The combination of toxic gas emissions, polluted water sources and the risk of fire certainly meets the criteria for urgent intervention.

Authorities have reportedly sought assistance from Réunion Island, whose expertise and technological capacity may prove vital in addressing the pollutants. However, the response must be swift, as every moment of inaction exacerbates the risks faced by the people of Mare Chicose.

Environmental activists and MPs are not only advocating for urgent action but are also being called upon to educate the population about the dangers they face and the steps needed to mitigate the risks. Public awareness campaigns can empower residents with the knowledge they need to protect themselves while holding authorities accountable for long-term solutions.

The need for a robust and transparent crisis committee cannot be overstated. If such a committee exists, it must provide regular updates on the situation, coordinate emergency responses, and collaborate with international experts, such as those from Réunion Island, to address the crisis effectively.

If a crisis committee has not yet been established or is inactive, reactivating and expanding it should be an immediate priority. The community deserves transparency and assurance that their plight is being addressed with urgency.

The unfolding crisis in Mare Chicose is not just an environmental issue but a human tragedy. The air residents breathe, the water they drink, and the land they call home have all been compromised. The question is no longer whether action is needed—it is about the speed and scale of the response.

The time to act is now. The people of Mare Chicose deserve more than survival – they deserve a safe and healthy place to call home.

For more information contact Anushka Virahsawmy, Director Gender Links Mauritius, maumanager@genderlinks.org.za