Footage has shown a murky looking substance floating through the river
15:56, 29 Jul 2026Updated 15:57, 29 Jul 2026
The River Towy in Carmarthen on Monday night(Image: Ben James)
Natural Resources Wales says it is “actively investigating” reports of pollution in the River Towy which is said to have created “an overwhelming smell” in the area.
Ben James shared a video he recorded on Monday evening, which shows the river in Carmarthen with a murky looking substance floating through the water.
Mr James posted the footage online, together with a caption which read: “Enough is enough. The River Towy in Carmarthen is in a terrible state. The smell is overwhelming, and burning my eyes on the river bank.” Stay in the know by making sure you’re receiving our daily newsletter.
A spokeswoman for Natural Resources Wales (NRW) said: “NRW has reviewed the drone footage. The scum visible along sections of the river appears similar to that of which samples were taken last week.
“These samples were confirmed as being naturally occurring marine algae.
“However, NRW is also actively investigating and monitoring other discharges into the Tywi, and its tributaries in the Carmarthen area to ascertain whether these are causing pollution.
“We understand people’s concerns about water quality in the River Tywi and are actively investigating the situation.
“Every report of suspected pollution is taken seriously and plays an important role in our response.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has reported concerns and encourage them to continue reporting issues directly to us.
“Local people are often our eyes and ears on the ground, helping us identify and investigate potential problems quickly.
“Our environment team receives around 500 reports of suspected pollution and environmental incidents each year in Carmarthenshire, with every report assessed and prioritised to ensure we respond where action is needed most.”
A spokesman for Welsh Water added: “We have no reason to believe that the issue is linked to Welsh Water. Our assets in the area are operating as they should.”
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