Cement Factory Construction Threatens Protected Forest in Simbang
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Senin, 2 Februari 2015 02:00 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Maros - Activists believe that the plan by a Chinese company PT Conch Maros South to build cement factory in Maros will cause damage to 300-hectare large protected and production forests in Simbang and Tanralli, Maros. The project is also believed to take over thousand hectares of farmland in Jenetaesa Village.
“There is enough environmental damage in Bantimurung. Don’t let the government’s permission for the new cement factory worsen the damage,” said M. Ridwan, an activist of Indonesian Youth National Committee Bantimurung in a meeting with team of environmental impact analysis study and the Environment Agency (BLH) Maros at Simbang District hall, yesterday.
The study team led by Yusran Yusuf asked for input from the residents and activist regarding the building plan.
The committee and the Jenetaesa village head expressed a firm stand to reject the plan. They believe that cement need for South Sulawesi can still be supplied by Bosowa Maros cement factory.
A respected figure of Sambueja Village, however, said he supports the plan since the factory will help boosting income for surrounding residents.
Yusran promised to report the objections to the central and regional government for further action.
JUMADI | INDRAS WULANDARI