Tuaran: A chemical spill was reported in the river in Kg Rugading, raising concerns that the water could be contaminated. Tests are underway.
Tuaran District Fire and Rescue Station Chief Abdul Qawie Abdul Gapar said his department received a call regarding the incident at 6.34pm and a Fire and Rescue’s Hazardous Material Handling Team (Hazmat) were deployed to the location.
“The crew took a reading of the river water and discovered that the power of hydrogen (PH) was 6.8, which is neutral.
“However, a hazmat detector revealed the presence of scheduled waste in the river water solution,” he said.
His team, which included members of the Chemistry Department, resumed monitoring within a two-km radius and collected two water samples for analysis.
“The Department of Environment installed three special equipment at three points in the Rugading River to block and limit the rate of chemical contamination,” he said.
Witnesses to the chemical spill have been asked to come forward to help with the investigation.
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.