Montclair sulphur fire: Investigation underway amid toxic dumping alarm

Firefighters responded to a fire along Umhlathuzana Road, Montclair. It was reported that piles of dumped sulphur had ignited. Emergency services were deployed to Umhlathuzana Road, Montclair on Tuesday following a hazardous substance fire involving sulphur powder, with residents reporting difficulty breathing due to toxic fumes.

Authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into the matter and the source of the chemical is being sought. The latest incident was confirmed by members of emergency services and follows at least one earlier sulphur-powder-related dumping incident in the same area, including an event reported on March 15 where sulphur powder was present but not burning. Divisional Commander Nqoro Nqabakazi of the eThekwini Fire Department said crews were first alerted to a report of strong fumes and smoke on Tuesday morning before discovering burning sulphur at the scene.

“At approximately 10:00 a.m, the station received a report regarding a strong smell and smoke in the area. Upon arrival at the scene, we discovered sulphur burning,” the department said in a summary of the incident. The eThekwini fire department noted that a similar incident occurred on March 15 where dumped sulphur was found along the road way, however there was no fire on that date.

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Firefighters were required to use full protective equipment due to hazardous conditions. “Due to the toxic smell and fumes, all personnel were required to wear full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including breathing apparatus, as breathing without protection was extremely difficult and posed a health risk,” the statement said. Metro Police assisted in closing off the affected road while firefighting operations were conducted. While the fire was initially extinguished, reports of a flare-up were reported later on Tuesday afternoon.

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