Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has explained that green dye may be seen in the River Taff as it continues to work to stop fuel entering the waterway following a pollution incident from GE Aerospace's site in Nantgarw.
The serious pollution incident is understood to have affected over two miles of the river. In its latest update, NRW said officers are using a harmless green tracing dye to track water flows and identify the route of the pollution.
Incident Timeline and Response
The incident was first reported at around 7pm on Friday, with locals in Nantgarw, Treforest and Taffs Well noting they could smell fuel. Further reports of pollution affecting the Taff in Glan Y Llyn, Gwaelod-y-garth and Tongwynlais have also been made.
GE Aerospace said fuel got into the river while repair work took place at its site in Nantgarw. A response team was immediately activated and fuel supply shut off, the company said.
Cleanup and Investigation Efforts
NRW said action taken since Friday has "significantly reduced" the amount of fuel reaching the river, and work is ongoing to recover fuel from the drainage system and minimise environmental impacts. The organisation described the incident, which involves underground drainage systems, as "complex".
On Sunday evening, NRW confirmed dead fish had been recovered from the area but said it has not been categorised as a major fish kill event. Further assessments looking at the impact on wildlife are continuing. Images have shown shiny streaks of fuel within the water.
Public Health Advice and Statements
In its latest update, NRW said the green tracing dye may be used at points during its investigation to help track water flows. "Members of the public who see the dye should be aware that it is a standard investigative technique and does not pose a further risk to people or wildlife," a statement said.
NRW said its priority remains "finding and stopping the source of the pollution as quickly as possible to protect the river and reduce further environmental harm."
In a statement, a spokesperson for GE Aerospace said: "The safety of our employees, neighbours, and environment is our top priority. We are working closely with Natural Resources Wales and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to clean up a fuel spill that occurred on site while repair work was underway."
Public Health Wales continues to advise residents to keep doors and windows closed if the smell is still present. It stated: "Kerosene vapours may be mildly irritating to the respiratory system. Our current assessment is that people who can smell kerosene may experience temporary irritation, particularly if they are exposed for prolonged periods."
"As a precaution, Public Health Wales continues to work closely with Natural Resources Wales and other partners to assess the situation and monitor any potential impacts on public health."
Public Health Wales advises residents to keep doors and windows closed while the smell is present and to open them again once the odour has passed. "Anyone who feels unwell or is concerned about their symptoms should seek medical advice by contacting NHS 111 Wales."
