Concerns Over Environmental Pollution Damage in Nearby Rivers
Active Administrative Response Needed
In the Seokjae Processing Complex in Wicheon-myeon, Geochang-gun, Gyeongnam, sludge (inorganic sludge) generated during stone processing is being left unattended, causing severe environmental pollution to nearby streams and roadsides when it rains, sparking controversy.
According to Geochang-gun on the 26th, there are 16 companies operating in the stone processing complex located in Namsan-ri, Wicheon-myeon.
When the complex was established, the county secured a 2,805㎡ site for wastewater treatment facilities to handle 120 tons of stone powder and other wastewater generated daily during stone processing, but without any special reason, the facilities have not been installed. Instead, simple sedimentation tanks have been created within the factories for self-treatment.
Because of this, some factories in the complex violate regulations that require outsourcing sludge (inorganic sludge), classified as designated waste under the Waste Management Act, to collection companies. Hundreds of tons of sludge overflowing from the sedimentation tanks are being left unattended on factory premises without permission.
In particular, most companies on site in the stone complex have not installed dustproof covers to prevent the accumulated sludge from being blown away by the wind.
Meanwhile, at company A, sludge is being released directly into the air, and sludge dust rises wherever excavators and forklifts operate within the factory. Additionally, the floor has hardened like cement after being washed by rain.
Local residents complained, "Thousands of tons of waste are piled up, which looks unpleasant, and when it rains, the sludge flows down the roads to areas near the factories, polluting the surrounding environment."
A representative of the Stone Processing Association said, "Due to cost issues, the processing company association is exploring many methods and making efforts to secure land capable of waste disposal," adding, "Proper disposal through processing companies is a priority even if it requires payment."
An official from Geochang-gun stated, "Leaving waste unattended inside stone factories is clearly illegal," and added, "We will crack down on the site and ensure corrective measures are taken."
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