RIVER POLLUTION

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20600, 30 October 1941, Page 4

RIVER POLLUTION

INDUSTRIAL DRAINAGE TAR-SPATTERED BANKS Residents of Whataupoko have noted recently a steady deterioration in the condition of the Taruheru river, in its lower reaches, apparently due to an accumulation of industrial drainage entering the water. At low tides during the past few days the water •has shown a bad discolouration, while the banks have borne traces of oil deposits at different levels.

To-day’s low tide revealed a degree of pollution which caused much comment among pedestrians, using the Peel street bridge. The water carried a heavy scum of oil, mixed with tar, and the banks of the river were heavily lined with deposits of a similar type, In places there were substantial accumulations of tar which added ,to the unsightly appearance of the riverbed.

Passers-by commented on the strong contrast between the condition of the river-banks above high water, where public funds are spent to give an appearance of neatness and orderliness, and the condition below the high water mark. It was pointed out that the presence of oil and tar in the river must play havoc with the shellfish which normally help to keep the river-bed clean, and which incidentally furnish Maori residents with occasional contributions to their diet.

COMPANY’S REGRETS ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE In a statement made to-day on the pollution of the Taruheru River, the Gisborne Gas Company expressed regret for any inconvenience caused as a result of an accident at its works, by which a quantity of tar escaped into the river. A break in one of the tar pipes permitted an escape of part of its contents before repairs could be effected, the company’s statement revealed. Every effort is being made by the company to reduce the pollution, the effects of which should soon disappear.