JMG: No compromise on Hulu Perak mining violations
IPOH: The Perak Mineral and Geoscience Department (JMG) is taking a no-compromise approach towards mining violations in Hulu Perak, with three operators having had their operations suspended since last year for failing to comply with the requirements.
Perak Mineral and Geoscience Department (JMG) is applying an uncompromising stance on mining violations in Hulu Perak, with three operators currently having their operations suspended since last year due to non-compliance with regulations. Director Nizarulikram Abdul Rahim emphasizes that enforcement actions will continue against operators breaching conditions, especially those related to wastewater, surface run-off, and effluent discharge.
Mining activities must adhere to strict regulations under the Mineral Development Act 1994, requiring proper wastewater management and treatment before any discharge. JMG is particularly focused on wastewater, which often has low pH and high metal levels, making proper treatment crucial under the Mineral Development (Effluent) Regulations 2016.
An example of this enforcement is the temporary suspension of Rahman Hydraulic Tin Sdn Bhd (RHT) operations following the detection of acidic water discharge from Detention Ponds 4 and 5, with pH readings ranging from 2.29 to 2.33. This action followed heavy rain on Aug 3, causing untreated water to be discharged into the river.
JMG has issued multiple directives to RHT regarding run-off management, erosion control, and tailings pond maintenance, requiring daily reports with total suspended solids and conductivity readings. The enforcement also extends to RHT, MCRE Resources Sdn Bhd, and Nalidah Tin Mine Sdn Bhd, who were previously suspended in November due to non-compliance with Environmental Impact Assessment conditions and Stop Work Orders.
JMG's strict adherence to regulatory and environmental requirements is evident, and operators must ensure compliance to avoid further actions. Nizarulikram clarifies that RHT's latest suspension is not evidence of the company's responsibility for the recent bluish discolouration of Sungai Perak, and further investigation is needed.
The suspension will persist until RHT submits a mitigation proposal, which must be done promptly to resume operations. JMG maintains routine monitoring and surprise inspections to ensure compliance.
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