Lam pao dam: Authorities have initiated a decisive campaign to address the black-chinned tilapia infestation in Lam Pao Dam, with Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Watcharapol Khaokham, taking personal charge of the operation. Mr. Watcharapol has committed to visiting the affected area this week, emphasizing that the mission must be completed swiftly and effectively. He has instructed the Department of Fisheries to examine the legal dimensions and investigate the origins of the tilapia outbreak in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Watcharapol chaired a meeting of the Command Center for Monitoring and Resolving the Black-Chinned Tilapia Outbreak, attended by representatives from 29 relevant agencies. At the outset, he declared the problem a national agenda. A budget of 450 million baht was sanctioned in 2024 under the government of Mr. Settha Thavisin to tackle this issue. While there has been some improvement by 2026, the situation in the Northeast, particularly at Lam Pao Dam in Kalasin Province, prompted the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Suriya Jungrungruangkit, to establish a management and resolution center for the crisis.
Mr. Watcharapol explained the meeting's focus on reporting the current situation, measures previously taken, and future plans. The Department of Fisheries outlined seven measures, which are being accelerated and consistently implemented under his tenure. The department has allocated a budget of 15 million baht for emergency management in Kalasin Province, with additional funding sought from the central government budget, which has 350 million baht remaining.
Mr. Watcharapol reiterated his commitment to resolving the issue efficiently, disregarding the need to wait for a court order due to the urgency emphasized by Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit. Concerns were raised about the rapid breeding of black-chinned tilapia in freshwater, prompting Mr. Watcharapol to plan a personal inspection of the area within the week.
The meeting also saw a discussion on coordinating efforts among different departments. The Royal Irrigation Department, tasked with water management, may need to construct weirs or implement measures to disrupt the transmission chain across provinces. Other departments, including the Ministry of Defense, police, and Department of Corrections, were called upon to support the initiative. The Ministry of Interior will mobilize local administrative networks to aid the Department of Fisheries.
Mr. Watcharapol addressed the budget allocation for the seven measures agreed upon during the meeting, emphasizing the need for minor adjustments to optimize efficiency. He also acknowledged feedback from affected individuals and suggested that the measures be adjusted to directly address their concerns.
Public communication efforts were highlighted, as Mr. Watcharapol pointed out the need for improved public relations to create awareness and understanding of the ongoing efforts. He called for regular updates on the situation and enlisted the Department of Public Relations' assistance in this matter.
Responding to concerns about a potential cabinet reshuffle if progress is not evident within three months, Mr. Watcharapol stated that cabinet matters are at the Prime Minister's discretion. However, he remains committed to swiftly and efficiently addressing the issue, contingent upon receiving necessary budgetary support.
Additionally, the Department of Fisheries plans to meet with its legal team to review court orders and lawsuits related to the tilapia outbreak. Mr. Watcharapol assured the public that the legal department is investigating the origins of the situation, reiterating the urgency and effectiveness of the actions being taken. He set initial progress benchmarks for 30-60 days, with clear results expected within 180 days.