eThekwini investigates chemical odour reported in South Durban communities
The eThekwini Municipality says a chemical odour reported in Wentworth, Merebank and Merewent was traced to a facility in Jacobs. Investigations are continuing into the substances involved, possible health risks and any environmental-law breaches.
eThekwini Municipality is investigating a chemical odour that caused breathing problems in South Durban communities on Thursday. The source of the odour was traced to a facility in Jacobs, according to municipal spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila. Municipal air quality officials conducted the investigation and found no elevated pollutant concentrations during the incident, but are assessing any potential environmental impact.
Continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations in the South Durban Basin were not used to detect the odour. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the nature of the substances and the extent of any environmental impact. Mzila stated that the municipality is working to implement corrective measures to prevent a recurrence of the incident.
Bongani Mthembu, from the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the source of the chemical release and the circumstances surrounding the incident. SDCEA took an air sample from the site for laboratory analysis and is also investigating a similar chemical odour incident that occurred at Umbilo Secondary School on March 12.
The school was evacuated and affected students and teachers were treated at Wentworth Hospital. The alliance is seeking clear and accurate information regarding the incident, including whether any regulatory requirements were breached and what measures will be taken to prevent future occurrences.
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