A task force set up by the Rivers State Government to end an ongoing life-threatening pollution in some parts of the state has shut three companies for their alleged involvement in the spread of soot, a dangerous substance that has enveloped Rivers.
The team identified the erring firms as Chinese Government Company, H&H Engineering Company and AUC Asphalt Company, all located in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.
The state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Austin Tam-George, said in a statement on Saturday that directors of the affected companies would be prosecuted in line with the law.
Tam-George, who is a member of the anti-pollution team, warned individuals and companies contributing to the soot that had become prevalent in some parts of the state to desist from such practice or be ready to face the wrath of the law.
The statement said, “The Rivers State task force on soot on Saturday sealed three companies for aggravated air pollution and breach of environmental laws.
“The task force wishes to warn all individuals and companies that engage in practices that pollute the air and ruin the environment to desist immediately or face the full consequences of their actions.”
Tam-George noted that one of the companies was shut because its asphalt plant was found to be producing thick black smog out of the furnace in the process of burning asphalt, thereby “heavily” polluting the air.
He stated that while the state remained open for business, the state government was committed to the implementation of the United Nations declaration on the importance of fresh air and the creation of sustainable livelihoods in every community.
Source :punch
