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NEA investigating strong chemical smell in west & central S'pore, air quality within safe levels
Air quality samples were taken at the locations reported and nearest monitoring stations.Amber Tay
August 05, 2025, 11:05 AM
The National Environment Agency (NEA) said it is investigating the burnt chemical smell reported in the west and central areas of Singapore on Aug. 2 and 3.
A spokesperson for the agency noted that air quality samples were taken at the locations reported and nearest monitoring stations, where "results were well within safe levels".
Those affected by the smell have described it as being similar to petrol or kerosene.
'Strong rubbery smell'
On Saturday, Aug. 2, a user on Reddit said there was a "really strong rubbery smell" at around 2am and the smell did not appear to originate from where the person was.
The thread was then filled with comments from numerous users who experienced the same situation.
The smell appeared to extend beyond the west, with some in Queenstown and Bukit Timah noting the strong smell.
Screenshot via Reddit
Similar observations were submitted to Mothership, where those affected still noticed the smell at around 8pm on Aug. 2.
One reader noted that they woke up in the middle of the night due to the smell, thinking it was a fire as it resembled fuel.
NEA is monitoring the situation closely
The National Environment Agency (NEA) spokesperson told Mothership that they understand the concerns raised by residents regarding the burnt chemical smell, which was noted during the morning and evening of Aug. 2, as well as the morning of Aug. 3.
"We take such feedback seriously and responded promptly to investigate the matter," the spokesperson said.
"while the smell is no longer detected, NEA continues to check the nearby industrial areas for any incidents and is monitoring the situation closely."
