IPOH: A plot of land in Kampung Pasir Puteh intended for a retention pond has become an illegal dumpsite for construction waste.
During a visit on Thursday (Aug 21), Perak local government committee chairman Sandrea Ng said the land was gazetted in 2019 for a retention pond.
“There was supposedly an ex-mining pond here, but it has now been filled with construction waste and soil by irresponsible parties,” she said at a press conference.
“Someone has encroached onto the land and even built a gate and fence around the area, which remains state land,” added Ng.
She said that the Land Office records will be checked to identify those involved so action can be taken.
“We urge those responsible to stop their illegal dumping activities immediately,” she said.
Ng said the situation has caused inconvenience for nearby villagers.
“Because it is a dumpsite, fires have occurred. Rubbish has clogged a nearby drain, causing flash floods at a nearby burial site during rain,” she added, noting villagers have made numerous complaints.
“Those in the industrial and construction sector must dispose of waste properly and not look for easy ways to save costs,” she said.
Ng also said there is a suggestion to turn the site into a recreational park.
“As there is no longer a pond, perhaps a park can be built to benefit locals,” she said.
Village security and development committee chairman Mohamad Norriduan Mohamed Idrus said waste dumping has occurred for the past 10 years.
“Various issues have arisen over the years, including flooding at the burial site and open burning,” he said.
“People scavenging for scraps would set fire to rubbish to look for materials. Such fires can spread and sometimes take up to three days to extinguish,” he said.
