Citizens of Johor has hit with yet another air pollution calamity.
The first air pollution crisis that hit in Pasir Gudang, Johor, back in March was certainly a crisis not to be taken lightly of.
Caused by illegal dumping of chemical waste, the air pollution crisis resulted in over 4000 people falling ill and 111 schools closed. Just last Thursday, 20th June, Pasir Gudang was hit yet to another air pollution crisis. Here are 5 facts you should know about the second air pollution crisis at Pasir Gudang:
1. The main cause of the crisis remains unknown
The second air pollution catastrophe that is believed to be linked to Sungai Kim Kim had a different edge comparing to the first air pollution case. Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim suggested in an article that it could be due to gas leakage and added on for the Federal Government to take over the case.
2. Over 30 factories have been narrowed down as culprit
Authorities have narrowed down 30 out of 265 factories in Pasir Gudang that is suspected to be linked to the recent air pollution case. Johor Mentri Besar, Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal, has also ordered for the factory to cease operation once found at fault.
3. All schools have been ordered to close down
A total of 475 education institutions in Pasir Gudang have been ordered to close down from Tuesday to Thursday to allow further investigations.
4. Over 75 students have been admitted to the hospital
As of June 25th, over 75 students have been referred to Hospital Sultan Ismail with 4 still warded. The symptoms shown in this second air pollution crisis was less severe as compared to the first crisis that hit Pasir Gudang. This time, victims suffered vomiting and breathing difficulties. Also, sources mentioned that the air smelled like “corroded iron”.
5. A crisis panel has been established
To help assist better in the investigation until the main reason for the air pollution case is found.
The recent air pollution crisis at Pasir Gudang certainly has shown us the severity of the impact of illegal chemical dumping. Let’s hope that the main root of the problem could be found!
Header image credits: Bernama
