Local Councils Must Stop Approving Applications For Buildings Near Rivers - Mahdzir

Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid

Local Councils Must Stop Approving Applications For Buildings Near Rivers - Mahdzir

KUALA NERANG, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- The Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry urged the local councils to restrict applications for business premises or buildings in reserve land situated near rivers.

Its Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid said preventing the building of premises near rivers would reduce waste being thrown into rivers which is the main source of untreated water.

"We welcome the action of the Selangor state government to stop all activities in reserve land near rivers to avoid contamination of river water. If possible we would like to see premises like car workshops, car wash, poultry farms situated near rivers, relocated," he told reporters at the Majlis Sumbangan Wang Tunai dan Pakaian Ihram to 100 Haj pilgrims at the Padang Terap Umno division office, here, on Thursday.

Last Friday, residents in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor were left high and dry when taps ran dry as four water treatment plants were closed due to a diesel spill in Sungai Selangor.

-- BERNAMA