Rayong: The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has conducted an inspection in Ban Chang and discovered the illegal dumping of 20 tons of waste, which they have mandated to be removed within seven days.

According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the PCD, stated that the inspection was carried out by a special task force led by Pol. Gen. Ittiporn Pothong, an advisor to the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. The task force, alongside various related agencies, responded to resident complaints regarding health issues and disturbances caused by the illegal disposal of industrial waste in the Ban Chang Subdistrict, Rayong Province. The investigation identified waste from a data center construction project, consisting of materials such as bricks, stones, cement, plastic, and fiberglass, which had filled an area of approximately 0.8 acres. This inspection corrected earlier reports that suggested the presence of 100,000 tons of waste.

Pol. Gen. Ittiporn has directed the Ban Chang Subdistrict Municipality to expedite the waste removal process, ensuring the waste is transported by a licensed waste disposal operator. This operation will occur under strict supervision to avoid environmental and public harm. Waste transportation is set to commence today and is expected to be completed within the stipulated seven-day period.

Additionally, the Rayong Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment has been instructed to collaborate with the Ban Chang Subdistrict Municipality to provide information about the data center construction project to the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONREP). This collaboration aims to ascertain whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is necessary, ensuring that the project adheres to legal requirements and maintains public trust.