Power outage causes gas leak at mill
Sudden shutdown causes paper and pulp manufacturer to leak malodorous gases into town.
AN ‘external power supply problem’ on Tuesday forced Mondi’s Richards Bay mill to experience a sudden shutdown causing the paper and pulp manufacturer to leak malodorous gases into town.
The incident led to numerous residents reporting health concerns such as headaches and nausea to the Richards Bay Clean Air Association (RBCAA).
‘I believe the power failure was beyond Mondi’s control, but the situation is concerning,’ said community representative, Sandy Camminga.
‘A dependable supply system in an industrial city is crucial for the health and safety of the public.’
Mondi SA Corporate Affairs Group Manager Lora Rossler said the company will review its own contingencies and work with relevant parties to understand how the incident can be avoided in the future.
‘Mondi regrets this and the effect it has had on our neighbours.
‘While odours are a nuisance, measurements taken at the time confirmed that the ambient levels of maladorous gases were below relevant health impact guidelines of the World Health Organisation.
‘The mill is now fully operational,’ Rossler said.
The City of uMhlathuze Municipality could not be reached for a comment or explanation for the power supply cut in time for print.
