Kuching (Sept 3) — Environmental Measures Enforced to Address River Obstruction
The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) has issued a significant penalty to a company responsible for causing a logjam and floating debris in the Balai Ringin area. This action is part of a broader effort to address the environmental crisis impacting the local water supply and community livelihoods.
Immediate Cleanup and Penalties Enforced
In response to the severe logjam and floating debris threatening the Water Intake Point (WIP) that supplies the Balai Ringin water treatment plant, NREB has mandated the responsible company to undertake immediate cleanup operations. The company’s activities, including uncontrolled bulldozing and land clearing, have led to considerable environmental and socio-economic damage.
“NREB is committed to addressing this issue promptly. We have instructed the company to remove all debris and logs obstructing the river to restore its normal flow, prevent potential flooding, and safeguard both the water intake point and the livelihoods of local residents,” said NREB in a statement.
Investigation and Potential Legal Actions
NREB has initiated a comprehensive investigation to identify any further violations within the buffer zones around the affected river. Should additional infractions be uncovered, NREB will pursue legal action against the responsible parties. This may include bringing them to court for prosecution.
“Our investigation is ongoing, and we will take all necessary measures to address any additional violations. We are determined to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that justice is served,” NREB emphasized.
Rehabilitation Efforts for Ecological Balance
In addition to the cleanup, the company has been directed to rehabilitate the degraded areas by planting native tree species in the affected buffer zones. This measure aims to restore ecological balance and prevent future environmental damage.
“The restoration of these areas is crucial for maintaining ecological health and preventing similar incidents in the future,” NREB noted. “The incident has had significant environmental and socio-economic impacts, and we are dedicated to mitigating these effects.”
Community Impact and Government Response
The logjam and floating debris have had a profound impact on the local community, particularly on those involved in fishing and transportation. Balai Ringin assemblyman Datuk Snowdan Lawan highlighted the situation’s severity in a statement on Monday, expressing frustration with the entities responsible for the environmental degradation.
“The river is not only a critical water source but also an essential resource for local fishermen who rely on it for their daily catch transportation to Balai Ringin town,” Snowdan said. “The impact on their livelihoods is considerable, and immediate action is necessary to address this issue.”
NREB’s Commitment to Environmental Protection
NREB has reiterated its commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and protecting both the environment and local communities. The board will continue to monitor the situation closely and take all necessary measures to ensure the incident is resolved effectively.
“We are fully committed to enforcing environmental laws and protecting the well-being of our communities. We will hold all responsible parties accountable and ensure that such incidents are addressed swiftly and comprehensively,” NREB concluded.