Local residents want concrete solution from government for Thanzit River pollution

11 August 2020
Local residents want concrete solution from government for Thanzit River pollution
Photo: Ko Myo Lwin (Ann)/Facebook

A pipeline observation group and local residents want the government to conduct a field investigation for pollution in Thanzit River near Made Island, Kyaukphyu Township, Rakhine State and to give concrete solution for this issue.

Pipeline observation group member Myo Lwin said, “The cause of pollution must be investigated, either from Chinese crude oil, pipeline leakage or crude oil pollution caused by oil tankers. The government needs to investigate the cause of the pollution in the river. The investigation must be effective and transparent.”

Pollution started in Thanzit River and Laungchaung creek in Kyaukphyu and Ann Townships in early July this year. Ann Township pipeline observation group Chairman Myo Lwin said that they learned from their survey conducted in the area that the catch of fish by local fishermen has been reduced by 70% because of pollution. Local people suspect that oil leaks and spillage from oil tankers coming to Made island port and oil storage tanks on the island caused pollution in the river.