Accra:Prachinburi The Deputy Minister of Agriculture is addressing water quality issues that have led to mass fish deaths in Prachinburi province. Laboratory tests are awaited to determine if toxins from industrial factories are responsible. In case of such findings, legal action will ensue. The Deputy Minister will also coordinate with the Ministry of Industry to discuss preventive measures. Meanwhile, the Pollution Control Department is actively working to manage an oil film and avert contamination of the Prachinburi River.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Watcharaphol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, indicated that the fish deaths in Ban Sang District might be linked to abrupt changes in water quality, affecting dissolved oxygen levels. Temperature and pH shifts have compounded the issue, leading to oxygen deprivation among fish. However, farmers are concerned about potential chemical contamination from nearby industrial plants.
Pending results from the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Pollution Control will confirm whether toxins are the culprit. Should industrial involvement be confirmed, discussions with the Minister of Industry will follow to establish preventative strategies. Evidence of unlawful chemical discharge into natural waters will prompt the Department of Fisheries to take legal action on behalf of affected farmers.
Mr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, reported that investigations into water quality in Sri Maha Phot and Sri Mahosot districts are underway following the discovery of an oil film. Green Environment and Technology Co., Ltd. has been tasked with implementing measures to prevent further leakage from the factory.
The Pollution Control Department is collaborating with the Marine Department to deploy oil spill containment booms at designated sites in Bang Phluang Canal to mitigate the spread of contaminants into the Prachinburi River. Continuous water quality monitoring and rapid analysis of results are critical to devising corrective measures, aiming to protect the local public and ecosystem.