Frequent landslides and mud floods at Kampung Raja in Cameron Highlands were due to unsanctioned earthworks for agricultural activities at the site, revealed Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
The natural resources, environment, and climate change minister said the project developer has been told to cease works on site until the approval of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report is obtained, and instructed to implement remedial measures to avoid recurrences.
Nik Nazmi pointed out that his ministry acted immediately following Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah’s decree that all hillslope development projects in Cameron Highlands be carefully studied and monitored.
The minister noted that the lease of the 6,475ha agricultural area was granted to the developer on Aug 20, 2021, and the state Minerals and Geosciences Department (JMG) received a letter of request for a site evaluation review from the Cameron Highlands District and Land Office after the first incident of flooding was reported on Aug 30 last year.
"This was followed by two more landslides in the same area on Nov 17 and Dec 20, 2022.
"Preliminary investigation found that the mud flood incident is suspected to be caused by agricultural earthworks near the area.
“Based on the department’s records, the area was given a moderate-high landslide hazard rating," Nik Nazmi said in a statement, adding that the situation was aggravated by earthworks that did not follow "best practices".
An Environment Department investigation (DOE) into the Dec 20 mud flood revealed that the project developer did not conduct an EIA prior to commencing works.
As such, the developer has been issued a notice to terminate works on site until the EIA report is prepared, and approval is obtained, Nik Nazmi noted.
In addition, the developer also has to carry out remedial works to avoid mud floods, and an investigation paper on the incidents has been prepared for purpose of prosecution in court.
Authorities to keep tabs
The minister assured that the state JMG will keep tabs on sites in the state to assess the landslide risk level, and gauge the need for mitigation works if needed.
"As an additional measure, the Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Ministry will propose the establishment of a special monitoring team consisting of various agencies led by the Pahang Land and Mines Office.
"The special team will ensure all projects are subject to EIA requirements, obtain the EIA report from the DOE first, and landslide risk assessments are made by JMG before the project is greenlit." - Mkini
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