SUNGAI PETANI: Diesel vehicle owners must regularly maintain their vehicles to ensure emissions do not exceed the legal limit, as failing to do so could lead to a fine of up to RM2,000.
Kedah Department of Environment (DoE) director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab stressed that failure to comply is an offence under Rule 11(1) of the Environmental Quality (Control of Emission from Diesel Engines) Regulations 1996.
"I advise all vehicle owners flagged today to conduct regular maintenance and to present their vehicles for reinspection to avoid excessive emissions that can harm the environment.
"The DoE remains committed to controlling air pollution sources from various activities, ensuring good air quality," she told reporters after an integrated operation conducted at Jalan Bakar Arang here yesterday.
Also involved in the operations were the Road Transport Department, National Anti-Drug Agency and the police.
Sharifah Zakiah cautioned those who fail to pay the fines could face even stricter legal action under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Amendment 2024).
"The recent amendments to Section 22 of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Amendment 2024) have introduced fines ranging from RM10,000 to RM1 million or imprisonment of up to five years for air pollution offences," she added.
In yesterday's integrated operation, the DoE targeted diesel vehicle emissions and noise levels from motorcycle exhaust systems.
Out of 240 vehicles inspected, 45 diesel-powered vehicles underwent detailed visual assessments.
Some road users cited reasons like lacking time for maintenance, which led to excessive smoke emissions, as their defence when confronted by officers.
Sharifah Zakiah said a four-wheel-drive vehicle owner who used this excuse was slapped with a RM2,000 fine on the spot.
She said two other notices were issued under Section 48A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 during the operations.
"The operation aimed to enforce various traffic violations, detect drivers under the influence of drugs, and address offences related to vehicle emissions and noise pollution
"Similar operations will continue across Kuala Muda district to protect air quality in Kedah, ensuring it remains clean and healthy for the public," she added.