Tofu Producer Illegally Discharges Wastewater, Polluting Nanzi Creek — New Taipei City Environmental and Water Authorities Crack the Case

New Taipei City Press Release]

To safeguard the water quality of Nanzi Creek, the New Taipei City Government formed an interdepartmental task force to implement comprehensive water quality improvement and pollution reduction measures. Using continuous water quality monitoring data provided by the Water Resources Bureau, the Environmental Protection Department identified the time frame during which abnormalities frequently occurred and dispatched inspectors for an on-site investigation at 11 a.m. on December 11.

Despite heavy rainfall that day, inspectors discovered that a tofu production facility located in an alley off Section 1, Daguan Road in Banqiao District had been discharging wastewater generated during manufacturing and cleaning processes directly into local surface water via on-site drains without proper treatment. The Environmental Protection Department has cited the business under Article 30 of the Water Pollution Control Act, with fines of up to NT$3 million.

According to the Environmental Protection Department, monitoring data indicated that the water quality issues in Nanzi Creek typically emerged around midday. Although no obvious wastewater discharge was visible in the creek during the inspection due to rain, inspectors conducted upstream checks near the monitoring point and caught the tofu factory discharging milky wastewater outside the premises while food production was underway. Tracer dye was used to confirm the flow path through the on-site drains, providing clear evidence for enforcement and penalties.

The department further explained that pollution in Nanzi Creek mainly stems from upstream sources, including domestic sewage and industrial wastewater. Regardless of the volume, all businesses producing wastewater must properly treat it to meet discharge standards before releasing it to prevent deterioration of river water quality. Although the factory claimed it had installed a sedimentation tank and that only a small amount of wastewater was discharged, inspection revealed non-compliance. The operator was ordered to cease any direct discharge of untreated wastewater immediately.

The Environmental Protection Department strongly urges all businesses to comply with environmental regulations, as there is zero tolerance for pollution. Inspections and enforcement against illegal discharges will continue to be strengthened to protect the city’s water bodies. Citizens are encouraged to report any signs of pollution by calling the 1999 City Service Hotline, ensuring timely investigation and enforcement against environmental violations.