Gyeonggi Special Judicial Police Uncover 16 Illegal Urban Fine Dust Emission Sites

Gyeonggi Province conducted a focused investigation into 330 urban fine dust emission sites and uncovered 16 businesses violating the Clean Air Conservation Act.

The Gyeonggi Province Special Judicial Police Unit carried out the investigation in two phases, taking into account the seasonal trend of rising fine dust concentrations starting in November. The first phase was conducted from October 20 to 31, and the second phase from November 12 to 25.

Key cases included Company A in Anyang, which was found to have failed to implement dust suppression measures, such as water spraying, during civil engineering work near a school.

Company B, located in Yongin, did not comply with the requirement to wash vehicle wheels and sides with water to remove dust when transporting soil generated at the site outside the premises.

Company C in Ansan was caught operating painting and drying facilities, which are classified as air pollutant emission facilities, without notifying the relevant authorities about their installation.

Investigation Results of 'Illegal Fine Dust Emission Sites in Urban Areas' by Gyeonggi Province Special Judicial Police Unit

Under the current Clean Air Conservation Act, failing to report a business that generates fugitive dust or not installing required dust suppression facilities or measures is subject to a fine of up to 3 million won. In addition, installing and operating air pollutant emission facilities without reporting them, or failing to conduct self-monitoring of pollutants, is punishable by up to five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won.

Based on the results of this investigation, the Special Judicial Police Unit proposed an amendment to the Clean Air Conservation Act to the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment. This is because the current maximum fine for violations related to fugitive dust is only 3 million won, leading to frequent repeat offenses by businesses that are willing to pay the fine.

Kiido, head of the Special Judicial Police Unit, stated, "Complaints and health damages caused by fugitive dust are increasing, but the current legal sanctions are insufficient, allowing businesses to repeatedly violate the law without concern. We will take strict action against the illegal activities uncovered in this investigation and have also recommended legal amendments to prevent similar cases from spreading. Going forward, we will further strengthen follow-up management and inspections."