West Bandung investigates 'snow-like' dust pollution in Cipatat

West Bandung's Environment Agency (DLH KBB) is investigating a viral phenomenon in Cipatat, where an area along the Bandung-Cianjur road was covered in a white, dust-like substance resembling snow. The agency suspects the pollution stems from local limestone processing industries.

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The PPLH team has conducted verification in the field to limestone processing industries in the Cipatat sub-district. Today, one company has been summoned for clarification as a follow-up to the field verification results.

Ibrahim Adjie, head of DLH KBB, confirmed that environmental protection and management teams have visited the site and verified the presence of dust from limestone processing. One company has been summoned for clarification regarding the issue. "We have obtained several pieces of evidence from field verification, but the results cannot be fully disclosed yet as we await the completion of the examination files, including today's examination results and laboratory test outcomes," Ibrahim stated.

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We have obtained several pieces of evidence from field verification, but the results cannot be fully disclosed yet as we await the completion of the examination files, including today's examination results and laboratory test outcomes.

Preliminary findings suggest that the white layer blanketing the area is indeed dust from industrial activities. More concerningly, the inspection revealed a lack of dust suction systems at the production sites. This deficiency is thought to be the cause of fine dust particles escaping into the surrounding environment, degrading air quality. The agency has not ruled out imposing sanctions if the investigation confirms environmental violations. The situation gained attention after videos of the 'snowy' landscape circulated widely on social media.

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If the inspection results show pollution or environmental violations, sanctions can be imposed. However, we must wait for the comprehensive examination results first.