Clean-up underway in Bronx River after major oil spill

The spill occurred last Monday, and approximately 1,000 gallons of non-hazardous insulating fluid, similar to mineral oil, leaked into a storm drain leading to the river.

Lisa LaRocca

Apr 8, 2024, 9:13 AM

Updated 179 days ago

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Efforts to clean up an accidental oil spill in the Bronx River, originating from a Con Edison transmission feeder in Yonkers, are ongoing.
The spill occurred last Monday, and approximately 1,000 gallons of non-hazardous insulating fluid, similar to mineral oil, leaked into a storm drain leading to the river.
The Department of Environmental Conservation is overseeing the cleanup process, with Con Edison crews deploying fluid-absorbing booms along the river, stretching from McLean Avenue to Fordham Road in the Bronx. These booms aim to contain the spread of the fluid and prevent further contamination downstream.
While significant progress has been made, cleanup efforts are still underway, with a focus on removing debris accumulated behind the booms.
“[Department of Environmental Conservation] spill response is directing the clean-up operation and Con Edison has placed a series of fluid absorbing booms spread across the river from McLean Avenue in Yonkers down to Fordham Road in the Bronx,” Con Edison Spokesperson Alfonso Quiroz told News 12.
Con Edison officials reassured the public that there have been no reports of health issues related to the spill. They anticipate completing the cleanup by Friday, alleviating concerns about potential environmental impacts.