KUCHING: A plantation company has been penalised for causing a massive floating debris and drifting deadwood incident at Sungai Krangan in Balai Ringin, about 90km from here, the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) said today.
The board said the company was found to have carried out uncontrolled bulldozing and land clearing in the buffer zones along the river within their plantation, which are crucial for preventing such environmental problems.
"NREB is conducting a thorough investigation to determine if there are any additional violations within the buffer zones.
"If additional violations are found, we will initiate an investigation and legal action will be taken against the responsible parties, including bringing them to court for prosecution,” the statement said.
As part of the remedial measures, it said the company has been instructed to immediately remove and clear all debris and logs obstructing the river, which is essential to restore the normal flow, prevent possible flooding and protect the Water Intake Point and the livelihoods of local villagers.
"The company is also required to rehabilitate the degraded areas by planting native tree species at the affected buffer zones. This measure is necessary to restore ecological balance and prevent similar environmental damage in the future,” it said.
NREB said the incident has led to significant environmental and socio-economic impacts, threatening the Water Intake Point that supplies water to the Balai Ringin water treatment plant.
"The affected river is not only vital for the water supply but also serves as an important resource for the local population,” it added. - Bernama
