Prachinburi:The Pollution Control Department is considering declaring Prachinburi a pollution control zone following complaints from local farmers about mass fish deaths and potential toxic contamination in the river.

According to Thai News Agency, the department is preparing a proposal for the National Environmental Committee to designate the area as a pollution control zone and to increase the frequency of water quality and heavy metal testing. This follows a letter from Prachinburi farmers to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment demanding urgent action after flooding led to significant fish deaths. Laboratory tests indicated aluminum levels exceeding standards.

Mr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, emphasized the need for rigorous pollution management, stating that Minister Suchart Chomklin supports thorough investigations into public grievances. Initial investigations showed no significant deviation in water quality from baseline levels, though certain heavy metals were not routinely monitored, prompting plans to expand the testing list.

Flooding may have temporarily degraded water quality, with the potential for natural improvement if contaminants are biodegradable. However, if non-biodegradable substances are present, different management strategies will be necessary. Concerns about illegal industrial waste dumping are also being addressed, with the government tightening inspections to mitigate environmental and health impacts.