Bojong waste plant lays off employees

BOGOR: Bojong waste plant operator PT Wira Guna Sejahtera (WGS) has laid off its 130 workers after it said angry residents forced it to close.

"There were threats to our workers and such conditions would put them in danger," WGS field manager Hedri Hendro said on Tuesday, adding that the layoffs would be effective indefinitely.

The company has a permit to operate but residents have opposed it, fearing that plant's operations would affect the environment and their health.

Hedri said the company had often expressed its commitment not to pollute the surrounding area.

Bogor public relations head Sahuri said a trial run for the plant would be conducted as soon as the situation allowed. - JP