Two recycling plants in Semenyih suspected of causing Sungai Kabul odour pollution
HULU LANGAT: Two recycling plants operating in the Mahkota Beranang industrial zone have been identified as suspected sources of odour pollution affecting Sungai Kabul in Semenyih.
Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari said preliminary investigations found that oil waste and dark effluent were likely released into nearby drainage systems before flowing into the river.
Authorities launch probe and enforcement action
The Selangor Water Management Authority has initiated investigations under state water regulations.
Those found responsible could face fines of up to RM1 million and imprisonment of up to three years.
The Department of Environment has also ordered operations to be suspended, while local authorities sealed one facility for operating without proper licensing.
Pollution source traced and controlled
Amirudin said authorities were able to identify and contain the pollution source, preventing further escalation.
However, he stressed the importance of strengthening preventive measures to avoid similar incidents that could affect water treatment systems.
The incident marked the 13th such case recorded in Selangor since last year and required approximately 62 hours to mitigate.
Water treatment operations restored
The Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant has resumed normal operations after water quality readings returned to acceptable levels.
Emergency measures helped ensure water supply to around 400,000 consumer accounts remained uninterrupted.
Water releases from Semenyih Dam were also increased to dilute pollutants.
Cleanup and monitoring continue
Containment efforts included deploying oil barriers, absorbent materials, and activated carbon.
Tankers were used to extract polluted water, and samples are undergoing laboratory analysis.
Monitoring remains ongoing to safeguard water supply and treatment operations.
-wilayah.com.my
