BALING: An illegal dumpsite in Kampung Besah, Mukim Tawar, near here has been burning since catching fire on Tuesday (Jan 27).
Kedah Environment Department (DOE) director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said the department had dispatched a team to the site.
"Last night’s inspection found that the fire was still burning.
"Heaps of waste, including plastic, are believed to have been dumped by irresponsible parties.
"The investigation is ongoing under Section 29A(2) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974. Those with information on the incident can contact Kedah DOE at 04-733 2832 or the Kulim branch of Kedah DOE at 04-403 7675,” she said in a statement on Wednesday (Jan 28).
She added that the dumpsite covers an estimated area of 0.5ha, with waste piled to a height of approximately 9m.
"We do not know exactly when the fire started, as no report was filed.
"The site is situated beside a road and along a river.
"We will verify the land ownership status. Official sampling has also been carried out, and all samples have been sent to the Penang Chemistry Department for analysis,” she said. – Bernama
