Moon orders probe into controversial state project to streamline rivers

By Park Sae-jin Posted : May 22, 2017, 16:11 Updated : May 22, 2017, 16:11

[Yonhap Photo]



South Korea's mega-state project that cost more than 19 billion US dollars to dredge, dam and beautify four major rivers will be under scrutiny after state auditors received a special presidential order to open a new probe into any wrongdoing in decision-making and execution of taxpayers' money.

The order from South Korea's new liberal President Moon Jae-in on Monday came on the heels of unabated allegations that the so-called Four River Restoration Project pushed by ex-president Lee Myung-bak during his five-year tenure from 2008 to 2013 has aggravated river pollution.

Revitalizing the Han, Nakdong, Geum and Yeongsan rivers was the centerpiece of Lee's "Green New Deal" to create jobs, secure abundant water resources, control food, improve water quality, restore river ecosystems, recharge regional development, and create multipurpose spaces for residents.

The 22.2 trillion won ($19.6 billion) project saw the construction of 16 weirs and dams as well as many wastewater treatment facilities in the process of straightening and dredging the four rivers. A vast network of bicycle lanes has been built along the buttressed river banks.

Soon after it was completed, the project has been the target of controversy and policy debate. Environment activists have insisted it was riddled with costly flaws.

Moon ordered an extensive probe by state auditors to see if there were any policy mistakes or wrongdoings, and the release of six dammed pools on June 1 to stop the spread of toxic green tides. The opening of flood gates at the other 10 dams depends on the outcome of environmental studies to be conducted over the next 10 months, the president's office said.

Apparently aware of calls from activists to investigate Lee, presidential aides said the probe would not target any individuals. However, they spoke of "due measures" if the probe reveals "any clear act of illegal activities or corruption".

During his election stumping, Moon promised to investigate intentional design changes and corruption by policymakers and experts, arguing the project aggravated water pollution.

In an earlier report, state auditors suggested that due to faulty designs, 11 out of 16 dams lack sturdiness, water quality is feared to deteriorate, and excessive maintenance costs would be required.

As water became stagnant behind the dams, the level of organic pollutants surged above pre-construction levels, the report said, adding additional work was done to repair structural weaknesses while silting required another round of dredging. Moon's predecessor and jailed ex-president Park Geun-hye ignored the report.

Lim Chang-won = cwlim34@ajunews.com

 
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