IPOH: Three mining operators in upstream Sungai Perak near Gerik have been ordered to temporarily cease operations pending investigations following reports that the river water had recently turned blue.
Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the suspension will remain in place until the authorities are satisfied with the findings of an investigation into the cause of the discoloration.
"They are legal (but) for the time being, they are to cease operations until we are satisfied," he told reporters after attending the Jelajah Taat Setia Madani Ketua Setiausaha Negara Ke Negeri Perak programme Wednesday (Nov 5).
Also present was the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Photographs and video about the bluish hue water went viral on social media late last month.
Environment Department director-general Datuk Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar had on Monday (Nov 3) said preliminary investigations suggested that nearby mining activities were likely the cause of the river’s discolouration, although other possible contributing factors could not be ruled out.
Wan Abdul Latiff also said investigations are still ongoing, with the findings to be announced once the chemical analysis report is received.
Saarani added that upon receiving reports about the incident, he instructed the State Secretary and several related agencies to investigate.
He said the agencies involved are the Irrigation and Drainage Department, Minerals and Geoscience Department, Land and Mines Office, the Gerik District Office and the Health Department.
"No official statement will be issued until the relevant departments have they have finalised their findings.
“I called the Minerals and Geoscience Department yesterday. The agencies will brief on the latest developments on the incident at the state executive council tomorrow in a meeting chaired by Deputy State Secretary (Development) Haliza Sipun," he said.
"We will issue a statement after the meeting, ” he added.
When asked on the current colour of the water in the river, Saarani said he had previously checked with the District Officer, who informed him that the water had since returned to its normal clear state.
“At the initial stage, there were reports of dead fish, which indicates that some form of pollution had occurred.
"As for the rest, we will receive further information including from the Health Department tomorrow,” he added.
