THE incident of more than 200 chemical drums catching fire and exploding at 16th Mile, Jalan Kapar in Jeram is being investigated.

Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari said the state is also investigating if the dumping and burning of the drums are done deliberately.

“We have yet to determine if there are elements of mischief by irresponsible parties, if it is deliberate or for seeking short-term profit, since disposing off chemical materials incur costs.

“Maybe, they (irresponsible quarters) wanted to avoid costs or there is a possibility the chemical materials are forbidden items that have to be disposed of.”

He said since the drums had been dumped in a location hidden from public view, the authorities are looking to identify their owner.

He added although several cases of pollution have been reported, number of incidents have decreased due to public co-operation.

‘‘It is impossible for us to monitor all the hidden areas and the river channels. As such, we badly need current reports.

“I noticed in the one year or two, the concern of the people is very high.

“We have tackled many pollution cases before they happened. For example, we succeeded in thwarting the dumping of chemical materials into the river during the Semenyih by-election in March. Similarly, another comparable case in Sg Selangor.

“This is due to prompt reports by the public.”

Amirudin said the state government needed time to fully eradicate such activities because it is not easy to change the attitude of the culprits.

As such, he said, Lembaga Urus Air Selangor is directed to co-ordinate all relevant agencies to ensure pollution monitoring activities can be improved. – Bernama, November 26, 2019.