TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV ) — “High-strength” wastewater was accidentally discharged into the municipal sewer system causing damage to the treatment process on Feb. 22.

According to a press release from Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett’s Office, the accidental discharge of high-strength wastewater, in this context, ammonia, did damage to the natural biological treatment process designed to make wastewater clean. 

As the Terre Haute Wastewater Treatment Facility became aware of the situation, the facility contacted the Indiana Department of Environmental Management immediately. The damage to the treatment process is not permanent and will not have an environmental impact on the Wabash River. 

There is also no danger or threat to commercial or residential users. The release stated that this instance of accidental discharge originated from a specific local manufacturer and authorities are working to fully restore the operations of the water plant.

The city will continue to give any related updates as the matter develops and stressed no further interruptions are expected and there is no risk to the community’s users or environment.