THE Selangor Environment Department (DOE) has discovered that the illegal activity of cleaning used metal drums allegedly containing chemical waste is the cause behind the blue water of Sungai Aur in Klang.

Its director, Nor Aziah Jaafar, said the department found hundreds of used drums during a joint operation with the Klang Municipal Council enforcement unit and police.

“We discovered hundreds of used drums ready to be cleaned in an open area outside the premises, where blue water was also found in a drain that led to a larger drain nearby.

“The activity to clean the used drums containing chemical waste, categorised as scheduled waste with the code SW409, was carried out without the approval of the department.

“An equipment operation detention order was issued to the premises under section 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 to stop the pollution and until further investigation is completed.

“A representative of the premises, a man in his 40s, was also detained to assist in the investigation.”

Nor Aziah said the case is being investigated under sections 34A, 34B, 25, 18 and 19 of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.

“Meanwhile, a total RM500,000 fine was issued for various offences under the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Wastes) Regulations 2005.

“Several samples of coloured water and scheduled waste linked to the case will be sent for further analysis to the Chemistry Department.” – Bernama, May 29, 2022.