- Illustrative photo. Image source: Pojok Aceh
JAKARTA: The Indonesian government has shut down three companies suspected of dumping industrial waste into rivers, a minister said on Friday (May 23).
All the firms were sealed and face potential legal action, according to Indonesian Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq.
The companies, operating in Tangerang Regency of Banten province, are involved in the textile industry, iron smelting, and aluminum waste management, he said.
"Specifically, we have identified the pollution sources because they discharge waste through a drain that flows downstream into the Cirarab River," said the minister.
"This has a severe impact, directly affecting residents and degrading environmental quality," Hanif emphasized.
"In this case, we have ordered them to halt all operations until further notice. For related parties, we will provide guidance to continue their economic activities while ensuring environmental protection," he added.
Hanif warned that the case could be brought to court, with penalties ranging from three to five years in prison or substantial fines.
The minister noted that his office has so far identified 23 pollution sources in the Cirarab River in Tangerang Regency. - Xinhua
