Fuel leak which killed fish in River Taff stopped

by | Oct 22, 2026 | Science

Fuel leak which killed fish in River Taff stopped

A fuel leak affecting the River Taff has been contained, according to officials from Natural Resources Wales on Wednesday. The pollution, which began on 16 October, originated from GE Aerospace’s facility nearby and spread approximately 2.5 miles downstream through areas including Nantgarw, Treforest, and Taffs Well.

The source of the leak was identified at 19:30 BST on Friday, prompting the deployment of specialist drainage and containment contractors to remove the kerosene from the site. Investigators are working to determine the precise pathway by which fuel entered the drainage system and subsequently reached the river. Officials noted that the complexity of underground drainage systems has made this aspect of the investigation challenging.

Environmental assessments found fewer than ten dead fish attributed to the leak, along with impacts to aquatic invertebrate populations. Reports of pollution were also received from additional locations along the river at Glan Y Llyn, Gwaelod-y-garth, and Tongwynlais.

Public Health Wales issued guidance advising residents in the affected areas to keep windows and doors closed, avoid contact with the contaminated water, and contact NHS 111 if experiencing any health concerns. Residents reported strong odors resembling a petrol station during the incident. Evidence from the incident continues to be compiled and reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

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