Ministry of Environment halts concrete plant in Las Terrenas for the second time for operating without permits

Samaná.- The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, in a joint operation with the National Environmental Protection Service (SENPA), ordered the immediate closure of an aggregate plant in the municipality of Las Terrenas this weekend, after verifying that it continued to operate without the required environmental permits.

The intervention was carried out following complaints from community members regarding the pollution generated by the plant. According to the authorities, the facility had already been notified and sanctioned previously by the institution, but had allegedly ignored the provisions.

The provincial director of Environment in Samaná, Juan Carlos Olea, reported through his social media that this is the second time that the operations of the plant, owned by the Suriel family, have been halted.

“We proceeded to notify the immediate closure of said plant’s operations until it regularizes its situation before the Ministry,” stated Olea.

Complaints about pollution and dust

During the inspection, it was verified that the dust and suspended particles generated by the operation of the machinery are directly affecting the residents of the area where the concrete plant is located.

Residents have reported health issues, dirt in their homes, and a deterioration in air quality.

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The Ministry of Environment warned that the plant will not be able to resume its operations until it complies with all the requirements established in Law 64-00 on Environment and Natural Resources and obtains the corresponding environmental licenses.

The institution reiterated its commitment to addressing citizen complaints and guaranteeing the right of communities to a healthy environment free from pollution.