The Phnom Penh municipal Department of Environment and Kamboul district authorities have warned of legal action against CUCU Cambodia International Co Ltd if the factory continues to burn fabric to operate a steam-powered heater which produces toxic emissions affecting residents’ health in the area.

District governor Khim Sunsoda told The Post that he had received complaints from residents and teachers at Odem Primary School saying smoke and odour from the factory seriously affected their respiratory health, especially young students.

After receiving the complaints, the district administration cooperated with environment department officials to inspect the factory and told it to stop burning fabric to run the heater for laundry and ironing.

“Our team advised and urged the factory representatives to sign a letter promising to stop burning fabric to run the heater. If they do not comply, we will take action according to the law,” Sunsoda said.

According to Sunsoda, authorities have advised the factory to use firewood and charcoal instead of fabric because they do not cause as much problem as fabric.

Environment department director Keat Raingsey confirmed to The Post that last month his team inspected and instructed the factory to stop burning fabric to operate machinery. He explained that the smoke and smell had caused air pollution and was toxic to the respiratory health of people living near the factory.

“This is the second time that our team has instructed the factory to stop burning cloth. We will take legal action if it continues to disobey our instructions,” he warned.

CUCU could not be reached for comment.

Nuth Sophea, a resident living near the factory, told The Post that after authorities inspected and instructed people at the factory, there was no more smoke or smell from the site.

“Now, I am very happy. Before, residents living near the factory could not breathe due to the bad smell. The burning fabric caused headaches, dizziness and respiratory illness,” he said.