It was reported that an organisation calling itself Regional Evironmental Awareness of Cameron Highlands (Reach) has drawn the attention of the Pahang menteri besar regarding the wanton destruction of the ecosystem in areas stretching from Lojing to Berinchang, Tanah Rata and Ringlet.
So far, disappointing as it may seem, the Pahang government has preferred to keep mum. Obviously the government is only looking at bringing in more revenue to its coffers.
An aerial view will be sufficient to convince us that the critical areas have gone bald and if everything goes unchecked, Cameron Highlands will soon take the appearance of a "moonscape". The felling of forest trees and indiscriminate cutting of hills could soon lead to erosion, landslips and pollution of rivers and streams.
To prevent further destruction of Cameron Highlands, I think action should be taken not only against the developers but also the authorities. This is the only way to halt the environmental degradation.
I think development in Cameron Highlands has reached saturation point. There are enough condominiums, hotels, chalets and vegatable farms to last a life time.
The authorities should not entertain new applications for housing projects or Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) to operate flower nurseries and vegetable farms.
Cameron Highlands should be preserved as a mountain resort -- a retreat for tourists from the lowlands to enjoy the cool air, the mountains, forests and waterfall, and not having to put up with a jungle of concrete and steel.
One must remember that it took millions of years for Cameron Highlands to be what it is, but human beings being so destructive, they could destroy a planet in one night (if I may choose to exaggerate).
We must realise that once these areas are damaged, they are considered irreversible and no matter how hard we try, the pristine conditions will be gone forever.
I hope nature lovers, individuals and non-governmental organisations come together to save and protect our beloved mountains, forests and streams before they disappear altogether, leaving nothing for the next generation to see.
I hope the Federal Government will give some thought about saving Cameron Highlands from further destruction.
Datuk Tunku Yusuf Jewa, Kota Baru, Kelantan
The felling of trees and indiscriminate cutting of hills for
development will soon lead to erosion, causing landslides and pollution
of rivers and streams in Cameron Highlands.
Read more: ENVIRONMENT: Preserve Cameron Highlands as a mountain resort - Letters to the Editor - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/environment-preserve-cameron-highlands-as-a-mountain-resort-1.144576##ixzz2grsKORUJ
Tiada ulasan:
Catat Ulasan