The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), has shut down nine petrol stations in Bungoma for operating without an effluent discharge certificate.
Bungoma County Nema Director Vincent Mahiva said the nine stations were unearthed during a routine operation conducted by the Authority early this week.
He said the Authority conducts routine operations annually to streamline standard operating procedures for all petrol stations.
“This inspection is a country wide exercise and I urge those operating outside Nema requirements to move with speed and comply,” he said.
He said the routine inspection is also targeting bakeries, shops and hotels to ensure total compliance to set regulations.
Some of the petrol stations closed for non-compliance included National Oil, M’ big and Total Energies.
In April, the Authority shut down a slaughterhouse in Bungoma town due to non- compliance.
“I was there again on Tuesday and confirmed that the owner is working at meeting all NEMA requirements before he can be given a nod to re-open. Let other operators adhere to the law and we will relate well. I can’t allow people to break the law as I watch,” Mahiva said.
He said that those who violate the authority order risk imprisonment of between 2- 4 years or be fined two to Sh 4 million.
He said similar operations would go on in Webuye, Kimilili, Mt. Elgon, Chwele, Tongaren, Sirisia and Bumula areas to ensure that all business owners operate within the law to safeguard the environment.
By Dishon Amanya and Roseland Lumwamu
