What is the massive fatberg found in London's sewers made of?

The 100-tonne fatberg is composed of solidified fat, oil, grease, and wet wipes that have accumulated in the sewers.

How long will it take to remove the Whitechapel fatberg?

Thames Water estimates that clearing the 100-tonne fatberg discovered beneath Whitechapel could take weeks to complete.

What should people avoid flushing down their drains to prevent fatbergs?

People should avoid pouring fats, oils, grease, and wet wipes down their drains, as these contribute to fatberg formation.

Home / Environment / London Sewers: 100-Tonne Fatberg Surfaces Near Whitechapel

London Sewers: 100-Tonne Fatberg Surfaces Near Whitechapel

23 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A 100-tonne fatberg was discovered beneath Whitechapel's sewers.
The blockage is composed of solidified fat, oil, grease, and wipes.
Clearing the fatberg is expected to take weeks, costing millions.

London Sewers: 100-Tonne Fatberg Surfaces Near Whitechapel

A massive 100-tonne fatberg has been discovered lurking beneath the sewers of Whitechapel in east London. This disgusting formation of congealed fat, oil, grease, and wet wipes is comparable in nature to a previous, larger blockage found eight years ago. The timing of this discovery is particularly inconvenient, occurring just before the Christmas and New Year period when household waste significantly increases.

Tim Davies, head of waste operations for North London at Thames Water, stated that the removal process for this significant blockage could extend for "weeks to complete." He emphasized that such occurrences, often caused by fats, oils, and wipes entering the sewage system, do not simply disappear but accumulate and cause substantial damage. The annual cost to clear blockages and repair sewer infrastructure amounts to tens of millions of pounds, ultimately borne by customers.