Tijuana Sewer Repair Raises Temporary Pollution Risk

A major sewer line repair project in Mexico, now entering its final phase, is expected to temporarily increase sewage flows and odors in the Tijuana River Valley and may raise pollution levels at South County beaches in San Diego. The week-long repair aims to prevent catastrophic failures and improve Tijuana's wastewater infrastructure reliability. During the project, untreated wastewater will be diverted, raising the risk of hydrogen sulfide odors and prompting health advisories for nearby residents, including staying indoors and using air purifiers if odors are present. U.S. and Mexican authorities, including the International Boundary and Water Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency, are collaborating to mitigate impacts and monitor the situation. The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District is monitoring odor and hydrogen sulfide levels and advises residents with chronic respiratory conditions to take extra precautions. Multiple agencies have coordinated sewage treatment efforts since last year to protect public health and the environment.