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Today (February 16) HKSAR Environmental Protection Department (EPD) was notified by Guangdong Provincial Environmental Protection Bureau (GDEPB) that there was a pollution incident in Shenzhen on February 15 relating to accidental discharge of pollutants from a landfill to Buji River in Shenzhen. According to the report from GDEPB, follow-up and monitoring measures have been taken by the relevant authorities in Shenzhen and the matter was under control. Their monitoring results so far did not reveal major impacts in Shenzhen River in which the Buji River is discharged.
EPD has sent staff to the Shenzhen River to inspect the situation and take water samples. According to on-site observations at the Shenzhen River, there was no sign of floating scum nor large quantity of suspended matters in the water. There was also no odour observed.
This notwithstanding EPD will closely monitor the situation and will take appropriate actions in conjunction with Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and other departments should the monitoring reveal any signs of major adverse effects. EPD will also maintain close liaison with GDEPB.
Ends/Monday, February 16, 2009
Issued at HKT 23:03
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