THERE were altogether 59 conditions which the main contractor had complied with before obtaining an EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) approval for the construction of the three major roads project in Penang.
State Public Works, Utilities and Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari told a press conference today that an EIA approval was obtained on Nov 7 last year by the main contractor who was appointed by the state government.
The three major roads project comes under three packages; with the first package starting from Tanjung Bungah to Teluk Bahang, the second package from Jalan Pintas Air Itam to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway and the third package from Jalan Pintas Persiaran Gurney to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway.
“The EIA approval was obtained on 7 November 2017 under Section 34 (A) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974,” said Zairil.
“The requirements for approval include the description of the conformity, the concept, the preparation of environmental management plans before construction can be implemented, earthworks control, erosion and sink control, slope stabilisation, water quality compliance, air, noise and vibration, control of stone explosives, requirements environmental audits and other administrative matters.
“Currently, an appointed consultant is preparing an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the three main roads. The plan will provide detailed engineering plans related to road alignment, details of control measures to reduce water, air and noise pollution, vibrations as well as the implementation of the construction works of the relevant roads.
“If the contractor is found to be in breach of any conditions of approval of the EIA report or the Department of Environment finds that there is a pollution issue during the construction of the three main roads concerned, relevant agencies can take action to stop the project until satisfied mitigation or overhaul measures are taken and they may also take legal action against the contractor involved.” added Zairil.
On a different note, Yes Enviro Services Sdn Bhd team leader Lee Aik Heng explained that to capture the sediment during the construction period, an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) will be initiated to keep eroded soil on the construction site so that it does not wash off and cause water pollution to nearby stream, river, lake, or sea.
The plan must also include measures to prevent erosion, contain sediment and control drainage.
Story by K.Thaarshenii
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis