By Nadiah Zamlus
HULU LANGAT, Feb 14 — A total of nine pollution incidents, which could have caused the suspension of water treatment plants (WTPS), were successfully resolved by the Selangor Management Water Authority (Luas) from January till now.
State executive councillor for environment Hee Loy Sian said the first pollution was detected on January 15 involving chemical waste into the sewage system at Sungai Cinchang.
The latest incident was detected on February 11 involving an iron smelting activity near Sungai Semenyih.
“The Luas Rapid Squad conducts 24-hour surveillance at the main river basins of the state to ensure the protection of the water sources.
“Therefore, (the public is urged to) report any suspicious activities that could potentially lead to the pollution of water sources so that such incidents can be prevented,” said Hee after overseeing an illegally built factory at Jalan Sungai Lalang, Semenyih, with Luas acting director-cum-principal assistant director (River Basin and Coastal Management Division) Haslina Amer.
Also present were personnel from the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj), National Water Services Commission (SPAN) and the Environment Department (DOE).
Meanwhile, Luas said that throughout last year, 19 pollution cases were resolved without ceasing the operations of WTPs.
However, 10 pollution cases had caused the WTPs to be suspended resulting in water supply disruptions.
A total of 12 pollution cases investigated were a result of effluent released from factories and premises.