Stunned in the middle of the night by the unbearable stench: 'Like faeces floating down the street'

Residents of Zagreb were abruptly awakened during the night by an unbearable stench that spread through parts of the city, with some describing the odor as resembling floating feces on the roads. The incident occurred on the western side of the city, particularly affecting areas such as Špansko and Malešnica, according to reports from local residents who took to online forums to share their experiences. One resident posted on Reddit, asking others if they had noticed the foul smell around midnight, describing it as “like feces floating on the road.” Others confirmed having sensed the same unpleasant odor in different neighborhoods, including parts of Novi Zagreb. The cause of the odor has yet to be officially identified, though several theories have emerged based on community discussions. Some users speculated that the smell could be linked to the sewage system following a prolonged dry period and subsequent rainfall overnight. One commenter suggested that the dry conditions might have caused a buildup of waste in the sewer lines, which was then flushed out by the rainwater, releasing the foul odor into the air. Another resident from Kustošija mentioned that the area often smells of garbage, especially early in the morning when opening windows. They described the scent as mild but unpleasant, indicating that similar issues have been present in the past. Other forum participants pointed to potential causes such as waste management practices in western Zagreb, including landfills and the disposal of organic waste. However, these claims lack supporting evidence, making it difficult to determine the exact origin of the smell. Residents of Špansko and Malešnica noted that they frequently encounter unpleasant odors related to the sewage system, particularly in the western part of the district. This suggests that while the recent occurrence may be more intense than usual, it is not entirely unprecedented in these areas. Local authorities have not yet issued official statements regarding the incident, leaving many questions unanswered among the affected residents. Without clear information from municipal services, speculation continues to circulate online, with some users expressing concern over the possible health implications of exposure to such strong odors. Others called for increased transparency and prompt action from local officials to investigate and resolve the issue. As the discussion unfolds, the need for a thorough investigation becomes evident. Residents are urging local authorities to address the problem promptly, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public health and environmental standards. Until further notice, the source of the odor remains unknown, and the situation continues to raise concerns among the community.