The state's sense of smell paralyzed: only one device to check for odors, which has been broken for several months
Lithuania has only one malfunctioning device to monitor odors, leaving residents exposed to unpleasant smells from local companies without means to verify their sources.
In Lithuania, the severe lack of odor monitoring equipment has led to significant public discontent. Residents have expressed their frustration regarding the singular device responsible for testing offensive smells, which has been out of order for several months. This situation has resulted in companies potentially polluting the environment without any checks, severely impacting the quality of life for those affected.
The town of Kėdainiai has seen a long-standing struggle as residents there fight for their right to clean air. Despite their efforts, many individuals have become disillusioned, feeling defeated in their battle against the pervasive unpleasant smells that plague their community. Over time, complaints have diminished as people resign themselves to living with the odor, often taking to social media to vent their frustrations but ultimately doing little to change the situation.
As of September 8, 2025, one particular incident highlighted the dire conditions when the city center was engulfed in unbearable odors from sulfur and chemicals. This prompted residents to escalate their complaints to the National Public Health Centre, hoping for intervention and a resolution to the chronic odor issues that have dominated their lives. The ongoing neglect and absence of functional monitoring tools raise serious questions about environmental regulation and public health in Lithuania.