Experts sent to help at culling sites

The Korean government has decided to restrict outsiders from accessing disposal sites as it works to improve the method of handling waste leakage where animals culled due to foot-and-mouth disease were buried.

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters said yesterday that it has formed a task force to conduct reinforcement work at disposal sites across the country where wastewater from decomposing carcasses is leaking. The fear is that underground water sources will become polluted, which could create health issues for nearby residents.

The team consists of 40 experts with knowledge of safely handling waste leaks and overseeing the quality of underground water sources.

The experts will check whether disposal sites were properly built and provide on-site assistance to local government officials who are struggling to handle the sites. They will also help local officials build systems to prevent wastewater from leaking.

The move follows growing criticism that there could be widespread water pollution at the disposal sites. Critics say improperly built vent pipes and wastewater tanks have caused wastewater to flow out from the disposal sites.

By Kim Won-bae [mijukim@joongang.co.kr]