IPOH: The bluish hue seen on Sungai Perak near Kampung Sungai Papan in Gerik may be due to pollution, says a conservationist.
On the Jejak Air Tawar Facebook page, Hasbullah Rahman said the colour looked pretty, but added that it is not normal.
He said there was a possibility of contamination from mining activities.
“The water of Sungai Perak is often clear and dark green. The change in colour may be caused by nearby mining activities or from upstream,” he said on Tuesday (Oct 21).
“There is a possibility the water was contaminated with metal solution from ore oxidation,” added Hasbullah.
He said there could be reactions with cyanide from a mine or fine mineral particles reflecting light.
“It is also possible there is arsenic content,” he added.
Hasbullah said the situation is often linked to the blue lake phenomenon in mining areas.
He said the water may look beautiful but high toxicity can kill aquatic life quickly, and added that this can occur even at a level of 0.05mg.
“It affects aquatic life and other living things, including humans, who rely on the river water. Such pollution can cause health complications, organ or nerve damage and cancer,” added Hasbullah.
He claimed pollution in the area had been ongoing for many years.
“I hope the Environment Department can be more stern and stop this recurring. Action must ensure Sungai Perak is not harmed by irresponsible parties,” he added.
He called for constant monitoring near mining, industrial and development areas.
When contacted, Perak environment committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said checks were conducted.
He said water samples from the river were between Class I and Class IIA and then added that the cause of the incident has yet to be determined.
According to the Water Quality Index, Class I signifies the highest quality of water.
He said it suits conservation of natural environments with no treatment needed for drinking and added that Class IIA means conventional treatment is required.
