KUANTAN The illegal disposal of scheduled waste is suspected to be the cause of pollution detected in Sungai Balok near here, Pahang Environment Department said.
The illegal dumping site was detected by the department began an investigation following public complaints and foul odours and an oil layer on the surface of the river.
"Acting on public information, the department identified a water channel near a sewage treatment plant in the Taman Balok Baru area, which is suspected to be used as an illegal dumping site for scheduled waste.
"This is based on the oily waste found and the strong smell from the location," the department said in a statement yesterday.
Scheduled waste refers to any waste with hazardous characteristics that could have a negative impact on the environment and public health.
There are 77 types of scheduled waste listed under the First Schedule of the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Wastes) Regulations 2005, and the management of such waste must comply with the provisions under these regulations.
The department added that two bottles of contaminated soil and water samples from Sungai Balok were collected and sent to the Chemistry Department.
"The department is still investigating to determine the exact source of the pollution.
"The public is encouraged to come forward with any information to assist in the investigation," the department said
It was reported on Thursday that Beserah assemblyman Andansura Rabu said villagers near Sungai Balok alerted him about the odour on Aug.
He then alerted the Pahang Environment Department over the case.
"The department went to the site to identify the cause. I was told last night (Wednesday) that the smell is caused by toxic waste pollution.
"The waste was allegedly dumped into the river near the Taman Balok Baru housing area."