IPOH: The waters of Sungai Perak in Hulu Perak turned a greenish-blue hue earlier this year. Now Sungai Rui, a major tributary connected to that river, has turned orange.
Parti Bangsa Malaysia environmental bureau chief Abdul Razak Ismail said the discolouration was observed after a check on the river in Gerik at about 1pm on Wednesday (Sept 16).
Razak said the state government and the relevant agencies need to conduct a thorough investigation on the entire river basin, not just a few locations.
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"If pollution is discharged into the river system, continuous monitoring and a thorough investigation are required.
"If mining, mineral processing, agricultural or industrial activities are suspected of causing the pollution, action needs to be taken," he said in a statement.
In July, it was reported that the water in Sungai Perak took on a greenish-blue hue.
Earlier this month, Perak environment committee chairman Teh Kok Lim explained that fine particles of copper, iron, aluminium and silica were washed into the river by heavy surface runoff.
Suspended mineral particles under specific water flow conditions creates the striking greenish-blue hue when hit by light.
Razak said there are also concerns among locals of high arsenic or heavy metal content in the water.
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"If arsenic content is at a worrisome level, samples need to be taken and the results disclosed to the public.
"There should also be a clear answer as to whether the water or fish caught by fishermen are safe for consumption," he said, adding that the public has the right to the truth.
"A thorough investigation is needed, followed by stern action if wrongdoing is found.
"The Federal Government should be concerned about this issue," he added.
When contacted, Teh said the state Environment Department and the Minerals and Geoscience Department have been tasked to investigate and take action.
