"We Can't Stand the Stench of Urine Anymore"... City Takes Drastic Measures

Disinfecting Effect Along with Odor Removal
Firm Stance Against Illegal Street Activities

A city in France has introduced a strawberry-scented cleaning agent to eliminate the smell of urine that has spread throughout its streets.

A city in Val-de-Marne, France, has introduced a scented cleaning agent to solve street odor problems. Screen capture from French media CNews.

According to French media outlet CNews on July 23 (local time), the city of Villeneuve-Saint-Georges in Val-de-Marne, France, has begun using cleaning agents with added scents such as strawberry or bubble gum to maintain its streets.

Villeneuve-Saint-Georges has been struggling in recent months due to a surge in cases of intoxicated individuals urinating on the ground or against walls. A municipal police officer from Villeneuve-Saint-Georges explained to CNews, "There are many disorderly acts such as unauthorized drinking and the illegal discharge of unsanitary liquids, causing residents to suffer from unbearable odors."

In response, the city introduced a strawberry-scented cleaning and deodorizing disinfectant to improve residents' living environment. Alban Gallet, head of green space management at city hall, stated, "This product not only eliminates odors but also has a disinfecting effect."

The city plans to take a tough stance not only on improving odors but also on illegal acts such as public urination. To date, 40 fines have been issued for urinating in public places, and 80 fines for drinking alcohol in public places. Additionally, a shop on Rue de Paris that was selling alcohol illegally was shut down.

Christelle Niasme, mayor of Villeneuve-Saint-Georges, said on radio RTL, "Scented cleaning agents alone are not enough," adding, "We are strictly imposing fines for illegal acts such as public urination." She continued, "Last September, we increased our municipal police force from 4 to 17 officers and introduced a police dog patrol unit," emphasizing, "We are thoroughly cracking down not only on street cleaning but also on various illegal activities occurring on the streets."