JOHOR BARU: Residents of Taman Kempas Heights have been reporting a foul onion-like stench coming from Sungai Tebrau, here, since 8am today.
They also noticed dead fish floating in the river and contacted the state Department of Environment as well as other authorities.
There are several housing estates and schools, including an international school, in the vicinity.
There are also factories operating in the area.
Resident Azlan Sharif said besides the authorities, they also contacted Tebrau member of parliament Jimmy Puah, who sent his special officer to the site.
He said residents understand that the authorities will require time to ascertain the source of the stench, but added that it was high time a proper pollution hazard mechanism policy was put in place.
"We have the National Disaster Management Policy, but it is necessary that a smaller scaled guideline be put in place for the safety of residents in polluted areas.
"The authorities should not expect residents to stay indoors and inhale the stench, which may cause other side effects. There are schools, too, here," he told the New Straits Times.
Meanwhile, Johor Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon confirmed a number of residents had lodged complaints on the stench.
The relevant authorities were at the scene, including DoE officers, he said.
He advised residents to remain indoors, and wear masks if necessary.
"Those who do not have air-conditioning in their houses are advised to open the windows to allow air to circulate.
"Anyone who experiences breathing difficulties or other symptoms should get medical attention at a healthcare facility nearby," he said.
Meanwhile, Ling said an operation to remove chemical waste stored at the Tiong Nam Industrial Area was ongoing.
It is expected that the waste removal would take about a week.
"We are taking precautionary measures to remove the chemical waste. The Johor Baru District Disaster Management Committee has been tasked to do this," he said, adding that the public should not panic.
Those with relevant information are urged to contact the Johor DOE at 1-800-88-2727 or the Johor Baru District Disaster Operations Control Room at 07-2200604.
It has been almost a week since several housing estates in Johor Baru were hit by a chemical odour stench.