PONTIAN: Residents of four villages here have posted a video on social media about a stench emanating from Sungai Pontian Besar, which is stinking up their communities.
In the four-minute video clip, which has since gone viral, the villagers of Kampung Jawa, Kampung Parit Bugis, Kampung Tanjung Air Hiram and Parit Abd Rahman are seen wearing face masks and displaying signs saying “Air sungai busuk” (Smelly river water) to road users plying the Kampung Parit Bugis bridge.
A check at the site revealed that there is indeed a strong odour emanating from the river, which is causing discomfort not just to the villagers, but also road users.
Misman Sarikun ,47, from Kampung Abd Rahman, said the viral video was made to get the relevant authorities’ attention so that necessary action would be taken.
“Several bridges crossing Sungai Pontian Besar are the main routes for villagers, as well as primary and secondary school students.
“We are worried that the stench which started two months ago will affect those using the routes in their daily commute,” he said, adding that there is growing fear among villagers that the problem could affect their livelihood too, if their prawns and catfish start to die due to possible pollution.
Johor State Environment Department director Mohd Famey Yusoff has urged the public to lodge an official complaint on the matter.
“I have just learnt about the issue affecting the four villages via the viral video. The public have to file a complaint using the proper channels, including via the e-aduan JAS, for record and initiate the proper procedures (for the matter to be looked into). It should not be done via social media, as it can create confusion,” he added.
