(Kandal): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet instructed provincial and municipal authorities, particularly in provinces bordering rivers and coastal areas, to closely monitor factories and enterprises that discharge wastewater into public water sources. He underlined the need to ensure that all wastewater is properly treated before being released.

The premier spoke on Tuesday (May 6) at the groundbreaking ceremony for the sewerage system development project in Ta Khmau Town, Kandal province.

Samdech Thipadei highlighted the critical importance of proper wastewater treatment, warning that failure to do so could harm public health and disrupt industrial operations. He cited a recent incident in Battambang province where untreated wastewater discharged by a factory negatively affected local residents.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, “This issue requires serious attention, especially in provinces located along rivers and the coast. Factories and enterprises in these areas must ensure their wastewater is treated properly before discharge.”

Prime Minister Hun Manet added that some factories handle raw materials with high chemical content, which demands heightened environmental oversight to prevent pollution of public water sources.

On the occasion, the premier instructed provincial environmental departments and relevant technical agencies to carry out regular inspections and to strictly enforce environmental regulations, without making exceptions for any violators.

Samdech Thipadei added that any factory found discharging untreated wastewater must have its operations temporarily suspended until the issue is resolved, failure to act could pose serious health risks to the population.
=FRESH NEWS