‘We Can’t Breathe Here!’ – Toxic Emissions from SLTA Asphalt Plant Choke Providence Businesses

A cloud of controversy is rising—quite literally—over Zone 20 in Providence, where the Seychelles Land Transport Agency’s (SLTA) asphalt plant has once again come under fire from fed-up businesses and residents. The issue? Thick, noxious smoke belching out of the government-run facility, leaving a trail of health complaints, stained buildings, and financial losses in its wake.

“The air stinks. Our staff have been falling ill, clients are refusing to come in, and our paintwork is being ruined,” said one business owner who, like many others, requested anonymity out of fear of retaliation. “It’s hard to believe this is happening in 2025.”

The plant, which melts bitumen to produce asphalt for road construction, has long been a thorn in the side of neighbouring enterprises. But recent months have seen a sharp uptick in complaints as production—and pollution—appear to have intensified.

Multiple reports describe plumes of black smoke settling over nearby businesses like a choking blanket, sometimes for hours at a time. Some companies have even reported having to temporarily close their doors due to unbearable working conditions.

Worse still, there are claims that the emissions may be causing respiratory issues among workers and residents. “We’ve had staff going home with headaches, sore throats, and shortness of breath,” added another manager. “It’s not just a nuisance—it’s a health risk.”

Despite mounting concerns, the response from authorities has been muted. Calls for air quality testing, relocation of the plant, or the installation of proper filtration systems have so far yielded no concrete action.

Critics argue that the SLTA is failing in its duty to protect public health, even as the government champions sustainable development and cleaner industry standards elsewhere. The irony is not lost on the business community. “If a private company were doing this, they’d be shut down in a day,” one frustrated entrepreneur remarked.

With tensions rising and patience wearing thin, those affected are now pushing for urgent intervention—before Providence becomes the poster child of environmental negligence.

As one resident bluntly put it: “You can’t build roads at the expense of people’s lungs.”