A foul smell reported across several Tuen Mun neighborhoods in recent days is likely linked to seasonal winds and ongoing work at the West New Territories landfill, the Environmental Protection Department said.
Residents have complained online about a sewage or garbage-like odor in areas including Yau Oi Estate, Tuen Mun town centre, Prime View Garden, San Hui, Tai Hing, Tin King Estate and Leung King Estate, with some saying the recurring problem affects daily life.
The department explained that a slope at the landfill shifted earlier, and contractors began consolidation work in late November, requiring the removal of some filled waste. Under prevailing northwesterly winds, odors may drift to parts of Tuen Mun.
It said odor control measures were strengthened when work began, including adding landfill gas extraction wells and mobile gas burners. Following recent complaints, contractors were told to further enhance measures, such as running deodorizing equipment 24 hours and using drones for regular odor suppression.
The department said it will continue monitoring closely and expects the smell’s impact to reduce significantly when winds shift easterly or northeasterly in coming days. The work is scheduled to finish in February, after which the odor issue should be resolved.
