Chiang Rai: The Ministry of Interior has affirmed its commitment to addressing the contamination issues plaguing the Kok River, a vital waterway for the region. The ministry has received numerous complaints from villagers affected by the heavy metal contamination, particularly arsenic, in the Kok and Sai Rivers.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, has tasked Mr. Khajor Srichanwanothai, Deputy Permanent Secretary, to engage with the affected communities. This engagement took place during the Chiang Rai People’s Power Day, an event aimed at campaigning for the protection of the Kok and Sai Rivers. The activity was held in alignment with World Environment Day 2025 at the Kok River bank, Territorial Defense Training Field in Chiang Rai Province.
Representatives from the People’s Network Protecting the Kok, Saphan Ruak, and Mekong Rivers have submitted a letter to Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra. They have urged her to address the transboundary pollution affecting the four rivers and to take immediate steps to close illegal mining operations while restoring the river basin’s ecosystem. Residents along the rivers in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces have reported heavy metal contamination, including arsenic and lead, which poses significant health risks. The Pollution Control Department’s tests have corroborated these findings, revealing contamination levels that exceed safety standards.
Mr. Khajorn Srichanonthai has reassured the public of the government’s commitment to addressing the issue, highlighting the importance of the Kok River to the people of Chiang Rai. He expressed gratitude to all sectors involved for prioritizing this matter.
The Thai government has engaged in discussions with Myanmar to address the mining-related issues contributing to the contamination. An urgent meeting has been scheduled for June 6, 2015, led by Ms. Thirat Rattanawanich, Deputy Minister of Interior, to expedite both short-term and long-term solutions for the Kok and Sai Rivers’ water quality problems.