A noodle factory at Siusega, Samoa, has been temporarily closed, pending a report from authorities on whether it complied with health and safety as well as environmental requirements.
Samoa Observer reports the Tofolelei Noodle Factory opened earlier this month to begin production but operations have since temporarily halted.
Factory owner Fogaa Sylvia Lafaialii-Fang said they are hoping they will get approval from the Planning Urban and Management Agency this week, so they can resume production.
The company currently employs about 50 locals.
Foga’a said they continue to have issues with one particular neighbor and an incident where she allegedly threw stones at the factory is currently in court.
The PUMA office confirmed a complaint from the neighbor, Metissa Ah Chong, who had concerns about diesel fumes and noise pollution from the factory.
The report also referred to waste oil being discharged on neighboring land, noise disturbance from a generator, water discharge, and workers lacking safety garments.
There’s been no response from the office of the Minister for Works, Transport and Infrastructure.
Photo: Samoa Observer
