Gyeonggi Province will launch a crackdown on illegal activities at fine dust emission sites.
The Gyeonggi Province Special Judicial Police Unit announced on October 13 that it will conduct an intensive investigation into major fine dust emission businesses in the province from October 20 to 31.
This investigation is a preemptive measure to prevent illegal fine dust emissions at construction sites, cement manufacturers, and air pollutant emission facilities ahead of winter, when fine dust concentrations typically rise.
Fine dust is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In particular, prolonged exposure can lead to severe health damage for children and the elderly, such as decreased lung function, bronchitis, myocardial infarction, and increased risk of stroke.
Poster for Gyeonggi Province Special Judicial Police Unit's 'Crackdown on Illegal Fine Dust Emissions in Urban Areas'
The investigation will target 140 sites, including medium- and large-scale construction sites near urban areas with frequent complaints, as well as cement manufacturers. In addition, 70 air pollutant emission facilities that release major fine dust precursors such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides will be investigated.
The main focus will be on the failure to install or properly operate dust suppression facilities (such as windbreak walls and dust covers), failure to report air pollutant emission facilities, and improper operation of air pollution prevention equipment.
If construction sites fail to install dust suppression facilities or do not operate wheel-washing and watering systems, they may face fines of up to 3 million won. Operating unlicensed air pollutant emission facilities or failing to install air pollution prevention equipment can result in up to seven years in prison or fines of up to 100 million won, respectively. Improper operation of air pollution prevention facilities can lead to up to five years in prison or fines of up to 50 million won.
Ki Ido, head of the Gyeonggi Province Special Judicial Police Unit, stated, "Illegal fine dust emissions in urban areas are a serious crime that threatens the health and lives of residents. Through this investigation, we will rigorously crack down on illegal activities and do our utmost to create a safe living environment where residents can breathe with peace of mind."
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