Chemical spill a result of illegal dumping
Wierda Road open after chemical spill next to the road.
Wierda Road has reopened after a chemical spill between Selborne Avenue and Ashwood Drive on Wednesday afternoon.
Tshwane Emergency Services (TES) spokesperson Johan Pieterse said 28 166l barrels containing an unknown black liquid were illegally dumped next to the road some time ago.
“Vagrants who saw the barrels today decided to empty the liquid out, as they wanted the containers,” said Pieterse.
“When police were informed of this, the road was quickly closed off. Our team and officers from environmental services did some tests, the liquid smells strongly of ammonia, but it seems it is harmless. Further tests will be able to confirm this.”
The police were assisted by Copwatch and local CPFs.
Two of the vagrants were exposed to the liquid, but are not showing any symptoms of discomfort.
Pieterse has warned of ‘severe repercussions’ for anyone caught dumping toxic substances next to the road.
“There are multiple sites, including one in Alberton, to properly dispose of toxic substances,” he said.
The substantial amount of the unknown black liquid has spilled onto the ground and will have damaging consequences for the environment.
A clean-up crew will have to remove the liquid and attempt to rehabilitate the surrounding area.
“Not only is it highly illegal to dump any toxic substance, but it will now cost the metro a lot of time, effort and money to clean. If the people who did this are caught, they will face the full penalty of the law,” said Pieterse.
He says exposure to toxic gasses could trigger symptoms such as shortness of breath, a tight chest, and burning or irritated skin.
Anyone exposed to toxic fumes should immediately go to the nearest hospital.
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