By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Jan 4: The large population of catfish in Bulatan Park’s pond may be a major factor contributing to its greenish water, increased foam, and unpleasant odour, the Department of Agriculture Sarawak (DOA) Miri Division says based on inspections it made last year.
The Miri City Council says it has taken swift action to address the issue with assistance from the DOA Miri Division.
Yesterday, the Mayor of Miri City, who is also Pujut assemblyman, Adam Yii led a team to the site to review the findings from the water quality inspection based on water samples collected on December 11, 2024.
According to observations and inspection results, DOA found that while the water quality readings of the lake remain within acceptable levels, the large population of catfish in the pond may be a major factor contributing to the greenish water, increased foam, and unpleasant odour.
Combined with water circulation generated by the paddle wheel aerator and leftover food residues that were not cleared in time, these factors have exacerbated the pollution issues at the pond.
The Sarawak Agriculture Department has recommended that the City Council strictly control the stocking of fish and other aquatic species in the pond and only allow pellet-based feed and regulate feeding quantities based on the fish population to prevent food residue from polluting the water.
In response to the report, Yii emphasised that the artificial lake is an important recreational park and fitness venue for the citizens. Its ecological environment directly impacts the public’s experience and the city’s image. He instructed City Council officers to take immediate action to implement the DOA’s recommendations and ensure that the issues are effectively resolved.
“The City Council will spare no effort to ensure the Bulatan Park becomes a more pleasant environment, providing citizens with a healthier and more comfortable recreational venue. At the same time, I urge the public to help protect the park’s environment and minimise disturbances to its ecosystem,” Yii stressed.
The Miri City Council also pledged to continue collaborating with relevant departments in the future to optimise the lake’s management plan, ensuring that Bulatan Park remains sustainable, green, and comfortable for recreation. — DayakDaily
