Run-off water draining from the smouldering woodchip stockpile at the NCT mill in Richards Bay is now being redirected onto an open site to prevent it from seeping into a nearby stormwater drain, leading to the Mzingazi canal.

This follows the discovery of dozens of dead fish in the canal since the weekend, with an investigation being conducted to determine the cause.

The Mzingazi canal has progressively turned black since the woodchip blaze began, owing to fallout from ash and ember-filled smoke, and possibly also from stormwater run-off.

Speaking to the Zululand Observer, NCT GM Danny Knoesen said while they are awaiting estuary experts to arrive this afternoon, they are racing against time to prevent any further drainage into the mangrove system.