GEORGE TOWN, May 17 – The Penang Consumers Association (CAP) has urged the Kuala Muda District Office and the Kedah Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS) to investigate and take immediate action to address mud pollution in Kampung Teluk Nipah near Pantai Merdeka here. Problems caused by soil erosion from nearby hills have caused coastal fishermen here to dock their boats and land their catches under threat.
In a survey conducted by CAP found that the sea water here has turned red and more noticeable when it rains. In addition to polluting the sea water, mud deposits also occur in the area. CAP regrets this incident and if left unchecked worse effects will occur in the future. In addition to affecting the daily activities of fishermen here, the pollution may spread and threaten marine life which is their main source of income.
CAP is concerned that the hills directed here will suffer serious erosion and could cause landslides in the area. Therefore, CAP hopes that a comprehensive study will also be conducted by the Department of Environment (DOE) and the Land and Mines Office (PTG) to ensure that the root cause of this problem can be addressed effectively and does not trigger a worse situation.
Apart from building anti-erosion bulls in the area, strict legal action must also be taken against any party found guilty of this incident. CAP asked the relevant parties to disclose the results of the investigation made and the action taken to the public as soon as possible.
