Why is Selangor withholding studies on Bestari Jaya pond water safety?

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Selangor Accused of Withholding Studies on Bestari Jaya Pond Water Safety

Klang Member of Parliament Charles Santiago has threatened legal action against the Selangor state government, alleging that it is withholding studies that demonstrate the unsafe nature of water from a disused tin mining pond in Bestari Jaya. Santiago contends that the state has failed to provide evidence to refute findings indicating high concentrations of heavy metals in both the water and soil of the pond. He insists that this water poses a public health risk and pollutes the Selangor River, as conventional treatment plants cannot remove traces of heavy metals.
Evidence of Pond Contamination

Academic papers from the University of Malaya's Chemistry and Geology departments, published between 2010 and 2011, consistently reported contamination within the Bestari Jaya pond. A subsequent study, which assessed 15 sampling stations, concluded that the Bestari Jaya catchment area faces a high pollution risk. This study found that the water quality necessitates extensive treatment processes.
Identified Pollutants and Health Risks

The aforementioned study identified several heavy metals as pollutants in the pond's water, including arsenic, chromium, copper, lead, zinc, and tin. Consumption or use of water contaminated with these substances can lead to serious health issues, such as cancer, kidney disease, neurotic disorders, and diabetes. These findings underscore the potential dangers associated with the pond water.
Selangor's Counter-Claims on Water Safety

In contrast to these concerns, the Selangor state government has maintained that water sourced from former tin mining ponds into Sungai Selangor is safe for consumption. State executive councillor Dr. Yunus Hairi stated that this assertion has been verified by the Selangor water management board. Furthermore, then-Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim had previously indicated that the water quality adheres to the health standards established by the Selangor Health Department.
Context of Water Supply Issues

Selangor, which supplies water to Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, experienced water rationing in March and April. This measure was implemented due to critically low water levels at the Sungai Selangor dam, a situation exacerbated by a prolonged drought. The state's insistence on the safety of pond water, despite the alleged withholding of studies, occurs against this backdrop of water supply challenges.

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Why is Selangor withholding studies on Bestari Jaya pond water safety?

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