Dongducheon removes 11 illegal structures from streams and valleys

Dongducheon removed 11 illegal structures from streams and valleys across the city on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday of last week, the city announced Monday.

The cleanup aimed to prevent environmental damage and safety hazards caused by structures illegally installed or abandoned within stream zones, and to create a clean and safe environment for residents.

The targeted structures — located in small streams in the Songnae-dong, Sangbongam-dong, Sangpae-dong and Tapdong-dong areas — included a derelict bridge, construction waste materials and various stockpiled objects. Because the owners were difficult to identify, the city followed the required administrative procedures under relevant laws, including issuing restoration orders, before proceeding with administrative enforcement. The removals were carried out under the direction of civil servants holding administrative enforcement warrants.

Deputy Mayor attended the scene along with the head of the safety management division, the stream team leader and other officials, who verified the scope of the removals, monitored progress and reviewed on-site safety management and follow-up plans.

The removed items will be stored for 90 days under relevant procedures, after which the city will review whether owners can be identified and dispose of the items under relevant regulations.

Ko Tae-seok, head of the safety management division, said the city would continue regular cleanups to prevent illegal structures and abandoned objects from damaging stream environments or causing safety accidents. "Streams and valleys are public spaces shared by all residents," Ko said. "We will do our best to create a safe and pleasant stream environment through field-focused inspections and maintenance."