Mifa struggles to tackle coal spill

By Tri Subhki R

Coal mining company PT Mifa Bersaudara is still struggling to tackle coal spill at the shore of Suak Puntong village, Nagan Raya Regency, Aceh Province, after its coal barge sank last week due to heavy storm. As previously reported, local villagers complained about the scattered coal at the shore, creating concerns over environmental damage.

?We are still dealing with harsh water (condition). It is too dangerous,? Ariyanto Purboyo, Deputy GM of PT Pelabuhan Buana Reja, the operator of Mifa?s coal port, said on Monday.

Mifa?s port in Meulaboh faces the Indian Ocean which has more challenging water condition. Mifa, a subsidiary of PT Reswara Minergi Hartama, exports its coal to India.

Mifa produces 3,400 kcal/kg (GAR) coal with very low sulfur content at 0.15 percent, but relatively high moisture content.

Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak