Stream in Argentina Turns Blood-red

The Sarandí Stream in Avellaneda, a suburb of Buenos Aires, recently turned a vivid red, shocking residents and prompting swift action from environmental authorities. Witnesses described the water as resembling "a river of blood," with a strong, unpleasant odor lingering in the air.

Possible Cause: Industrial Contamination?

Preliminary investigations by Buenos Aires' Ministry of the Environment suggest the discoloration may be linked to an organic dye spill. The Sarandí Stream flows through an industrial zone housing tanneries, textile factories, and chemical plants—facilities previously implicated in environmental contamination. Residents have long complained about pollution in the stream, noting past discolorations in shades of yellow, blue, green, pink, and purple, often accompanied by oily films and acidic odors.

The Sarandí Stream in Buenos Aires turned blood-red. Photos by: Sebastián Hipperding

To determine the exact cause of the red hue, authorities have collected water samples for chemical analysis. Early assessments point to aniline, a toxic compound commonly used in dye production, as a likely culprit. The Ministry of the Environment has launched a formal investigation and filed a complaint with provincial authorities, signaling the possibility of stricter regulations on industrial discharges if hazardous substances are confirmed.

A History of Pollution and Environmental Neglect

The Sarandí Stream is part of the heavily polluted Matanza-Riachuelo River basin, one of Latin America's most contaminated waterways. Flowing into the Río de la Plata, the stream has long been the subject of environmental concerns due to industrial waste disposal. Residents have reported unusual discolorations for decades, often accompanied by foul odors and greasy residues.

This latest incident, however, appears more extreme than previous ones. Witnesses noted a nauseating smell before the stream turned red, raising fears of hazardous waste contamination. Environmental groups and local activists argue that this event highlights the ongoing failure to regulate industrial pollution in the region.

Sarandí Stream in Avellaneda, Argentina, turns blood red due to suspected industrial dye spill.

Authorities Respond Amid Growing Public Concern

Environmental officials are analyzing water samples to confirm the presence of harmful chemicals and assess potential health risks. While authorities have not yet determined whether the contamination poses an immediate threat, environmental advocates warn that prolonged industrial pollution could have serious consequences for ecosystems and public health.

This incident has reignited calls for stricter environmental oversight in Argentina’s industrial zones. Many residents are demanding tighter regulations on waste management and more rigorous monitoring of industrial activities to prevent further pollution.

Sarandí Stream turns blood red due to suspected industrial pollution.

Blood-red water raises environmental concerns.

As the community awaits official test results, the Sarandí Stream stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental challenges in Buenos Aires. Without decisive action, the risk of further contamination—and its consequences for both nature and human health—remains a pressing issue.