VietNamNet Bridge – Environment Police have asked Ha Noi People's Committee to fine Ha Nguyet Ltd Company VND200 million (US$10,300) for violating environmental regulations, an official from the department has told Viet Nam News.

Aquatic plants to help clean lakes

Contaminated water threatens Ha Noi

Nguyen Thi Yen said the fine, following Decree No 117 that took effect in March, would be 10 times higher than fines outlined in its predecessor, Decree No 81, adding that it would be strict enough to deter others from such violations.

She said the fabric dyeing company in Ha Noi's Gia Lam District was found to be discharging untreated toxic waste water into the Duong River.

"An investigation by the Natural Resources and Environment Department shows that the company discharged waste water 16 times more toxic than the permitted level," Yen said.

She added that the company had shown no commitment to protecting the environment.

Last month, the department, in co-ordination with the Waterway and Gia Lam District police, conducted a raid at the company premises.

The department said it had been aware of the issue since late August.

Nguyen Ha Quang from the Environment Police Department, said at the time of inspection, the team discovered toxic chemicals and dye from four machines being drained onto the floor and running down a large pipe leading directly to the river.

"We have uncovered several cases of illegal discharging throughout the city but this was the first on the Duong River," Quang said.

He added that the river water was black and filthy with an unbearable smell and in the company's primitive warehouse, chemicals and dyes were scattered across the floor.

Viet Nam News tried to reach the company's director Nguyen Van Thanh Ha for comment but was unsuccessful.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News