At Friday’s Government meeting, members discussed pollution in the Orkhon River, which has been contaminated by chemicals from mining companies. The Government decided to take action against local officials who have failed to enforce environmental protection measures.

Nature, Environment and Tourism Minister L.Gansukh told our correspondent that local officials and inspectors would be held accountable for failing to implement Government decisions, including the closing of gold mining wells. The General Police Department and the State Investigation Office will investigate.

An estimated 250 mining wells are believed to be contributing to the pollution, and L.Gansukh said the companies that operate those wells will be held accountable as well.