Fuel Leak Pollutes River Taff for Miles
Residents advised to close windows and doors as kerosene spreads across 2.5 miles of the waterway.
A significant fuel leak has contaminated the River Taff, with kerosene spreading approximately 2.5 miles (4km) downstream from Taffs Well, according to Natural Resources Wales (NRW). The pollution was first reported Saturday morning, initially affecting about one mile (1.6km) of the river. NRW is investigating the source of the incident to halt the pollution and gather evidence.
Residents have reported a strong smell of fumes, described as similar to a petrol station, affecting the local area. Public Health Wales has advised people living nearby to keep their windows and doors shut due to the odor. Absorbent materials have been deployed in an effort to contain the spill.
One resident, Eurig Thomas, noted the river developed a "shiny sheen" and that the smell, while dissipating, was still noticeable. Sarah Llewelyn described fumes burning her eyes and reported that South Wales Fire and Rescue had been to a GE site on Friday, where they reportedly stopped the flow. Llewelyn also stated that NRW informed residents up to 25,000 liters of kerosene had entered the river.
Former hazardous materials environmental protection officer Gareth Llewelyn suggested there would be no quick resolution, estimating the recovery process could take years. He observed kerosene in a culvert near the GE site, noting that the substance does not mix with water and will continue to pollute the river. Llewelyn expressed deep concern for the local environment, stating the incident had "torn the heart out of our community" and "killed all the fish," with no signs of animal or bird life in the affected area.