DoE suspends Yan rice mill over air pollution

 

Kedah DoE said the mill was ordered to cease operations after an inspection yesterday following public complaints. (DoE pic)

ALOR SETAR: 

The Kedah environment department (DoE) has issued a suspension order against a rice mill in Yan for causing air pollution and discomfort to the local community.

State DoE director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said the mill was ordered to cease operations immediately after an inspection yesterday following public complaints.

“The suspension order was imposed under Section 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 after it was found that the air pollution control equipment had malfunctioned and was leaking.

“This led to significant air pollution in the surrounding area,” she said in a statement today.

Sharifah said notices under Sections 31 and 37 of the Act had been issued, requiring the mill to undertake immediate repairs and maintenance during the suspension period.

“The mill will only be allowed to resume operations once we are satisfied with the corrective measures taken.

“Industrial operators must fully comply with the Environmental Quality Act 1974 to prevent environmental pollution.

“The public is encouraged to report environmental pollution activities via the toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727, through email at aduan_k@doe.gov.my, or the DoE’s e-complaint portal at https://eaduan.doe.gov.my,” she added. - FMT