SHAH ALAM, 18 Feb: The Department of Environment (DOE) has made the move to shut down factory operations at Sungai Purun because it contributed to the deterioration of the water quality at the Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant.
The Exco for Infrastructure and Public Amenities, Zaidy Abdul Talib, said that the move was taken based on results of DOE investigations with the Water Resource Pollution Task Force, led by the Selangor Water Management Board (KUAS) and the operator of the Semenyih plant, ABASS.
“The factory did not comply with the Environmental Quality Act 1974. The state government stressed that we will not compromise with those who contaminate the water sources,” he said in a statement today.
At the same time, Zaidy said that LUAS and DOE are continuing investigations to identify other causes that contribute to the pollution of raw water.
“The Selangor government is very disappointed with what happened and are very sympathetic to the people who faced water supply problems.
“Furthermore, now is the festive season for the Chinese New Year celebration,” he said.
The Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant reduced their production of treated water since February 15 after the plant operator detected low levels of acidity with manganese and ammonia content that exceeded the standards allowed.
The current status, as of 6.00 am, is that 98 percent of affected areas have begun receiving treated water supply again.
The area still affected is Bandar Puteri Puchong, where 50 percent of the area has recovered, and Puchong Hartamas (75%).
NS
