Preah Sihanouk provincial authorities have revoked the business licences of four companies working across more than 10 hectares for alleged environmental impact, including damaging sewage and road systems.

The decision came after an inspection by authorities on Friday found that the companies had carried out activities including digging, selling rocks and sand-dredging, with “technical flaws”.

Sok Phorn, deputy governor of Sihanoukville, said the provincial authorities had received several complaints from local citizens, after which they warned the companies of the adverse consequences of their dredging. However, only one of the four heeded their advice and showed progress in minimising harm.

“We also established a commission to assess the impact on the environment and to set the appropriate conditions so that the companies can apply for new licences,” Phorn explained.

Yun Min, who assumed the role of provincial governor shortly after the companies were suspended, explained that the authorities were educating them in appropriate dredging techniques and that no legal action was currently planned.