A factory in Takeo’s Tram Kak district yesterday said they would heed a warning to stop dumping sewage into a stream following an inspection by officials on Sunday.

Chhay Monly, head of the Provincial Department of Environment, yesterday said that following requests from locals, Chinese electronics manufacturer Kuan Tech was found to be violating ministry codes on waste disposal.

“We requested [the factory] build something for wastewater storage and stop releasing the waste into the stream,” he said.

If the company continued to dump waste into the stream, the department would close the factory, he said.

While a deadline has not been set, Monly said the ministry would test the water next week.

“The factory was licensed by the ministry before starting operation, which included a check about the waste disposal,” Monly added.

Popel commune chief Nob Hean said water from the stream is mostly used for farming by downstream communities.

Kuan Tech administrator Yen Ing denied the waste was released untreated, but said adequate disposal would be implemented. “I am not sure how long it will take,” she said.