Action to be taken against dumpsite operators

BUKIT MERTAJAM: Stern action will be taken against those operating an illegal dumpsite in Machang Bubok here.

Seberang Prai Municipal Council (MPSP) president Datuk Rozali Mohamud said they had not issued any licence for the scrapyard.

“The disposal of shredded plastic at the site is deemed illegal.

“I have ordered stern action to be taken immediately.

“Contractors are supposed to dispose their waste at the designated site in Pulau Burung, Nibong Tebal.

“They should learn from the recent chemical pollution in Sungai Kim Kim in Johor and not put the safety of others at stake,” he said on Monday.

It is learnt that an enforcement team from MPSP has inspected the site. Today, representatives from several government agencies are expected to conduct checks.

Penang Department of Environ­ment (DoE) deputy director Abdul Aziz Parmin said the department had been monitoring the scrapyard following the discovery of illegally disposed chemicals in a nearby oil palm estate.

“We are still waiting for the report from the chemistry department to determine its source.

“At the same time, we are monitoring the surrounding areas where the waste was found, and this includes the scrapyard.

“We will move in and take action against anyone suspected of carrying out illegal dumping activities.

“However, the issuance of licences and permits to operate such scrapyards falls under the council’s jurisdiction,” he said.