Diesel Spill Impact and Current Status
A diesel spillage into the River Dochart, which subsequently flowed into the River Tay in Perthshire, appears to be clearing, according to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa).
During a visual inspection, Sepa reported that the east end of Loch Tay was clear and no visible impacts were detected in the River Tay from Kenmore to Aberfeldy.
Containment measures have been implemented; however, residents in the village of Killin have been warned that the water remains unsafe for consumption.
The operators of the petrol station said an attempted theft had damaged a fuel tank.
Community Response and Water Supply Concerns
Since the spillage, volunteers have distributed approximately 40,000 bottles of water to affected residents. The incident was initially reported on Friday after locals experienced a strong solvent taste in their water and noticed an odor in the air outside.
Scottish Water has been working continuously since the incident was reported, flushing the water system. Despite these efforts, the agency has cautioned that it may take several days before the water supply returns to normal.
Water was being added to the local network to flush the pipe system.
Warnings and Public Safety Measures
Local MSP Evelyn Tweed has highlighted reports of "bogus plumbers approaching residents" in the area.
"We are working closely with the police to ensure customers are aware of this."
Scottish Water confirmed that it has only engaged Speedy Plumbers to assist customers.
John Griffen, Water Operations General Manager, stated that over 100 workers are advising households and businesses individually.
"Our teams are flushing the network using tankers and carrying out continuous sampling and testing at our dedicated laboratories to closely monitor and analyse water quality.
"The sample results inform every decision we take, and only when we are satisfied that there is no risk to customers, will we change our guidance."
Residents have been urged to avoid using tap water for any purpose other than flushing toilets. This includes refraining from drinking, cooking, washing, brushing teeth, feeding pets, and using appliances such as coffee makers and ice machines connected to the mains supply.
It has been emphasized that boiling the water will not make it safe to drink.
Containment Efforts and Environmental Monitoring
Sepa's national duty manager, Wendy Thornton, provided an update on containment efforts.
"Containment, currently in the form of booms and absorbent materials, has been put in place upstream close to the source of the spill.
"However, some oil may bypass the containment and there is still some oil present in upstream watercourses.
"We expect pockets of oil may continue to get washed downstream for some time.
"Sepa will continue to closely monitor the situation and work with local authorities and Scottish Water to help manage any impacts.
"Any impacts are most likely to be seen in the small watercourses next to the site of the spill."
Perth and Kinross Council reported no sightings of fuel sheen in the River Tay or Loch Tay since Saturday afternoon but confirmed that monitoring will continue for an extended period.
Residents are encouraged to report any observations or odors of fuel in the river or loch to Sepa.
A council spokesperson clarified that there are no concerns regarding the public drinking water supply within the Perth and Kinross Council area, as Killin falls under the jurisdiction of Stirling Council.
