Coal pollution hits Teluk Kalong Beach again, covers 300m stretch
CHUKAI: Teluk Kalong Beach has once again been hit by coal pollution over the past three days, believed to have originated from a barge that broke apart near the shoreline in January.
Teluk Kalong Beach, a popular recreational area in Chukai, has been struck by coal pollution for the third consecutive day. The source of the contamination is believed to be a barge that broke apart near the shore in January, according to resident Azhar Ngah, 64. Black solid material, washed ashore by the tide, has covered a 300-metre stretch of the beach, diminishing its cleanliness and aesthetic appeal.
Ngah expressed hope that authorities would promptly initiate cleanup operations to remove the coal debris, safeguarding the beach's cleanliness and the safety and well-being of fishermen and visitors.
Fisherman Mohamad Azrul Naim Rahim, 36, also voiced concern over the beach's deteriorating condition. While he acknowledged that the current pollution is less severe than the January incident, he warned that the coal spillage could worsen if the authorities do not act swiftly. The Terengganu Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Committee chairman, Datuk Razali Idris, has instructed the Kemaman Municipal Council, the Department of Environment, and the Marine Department to investigate the pollution's source and immediately clear the coal debris.
Idris emphasized the urgency of these cleanup efforts, given that Teluk Kalong Beach is a popular tourist destination.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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