Bangkok: The Prime Minister received a report on solving the Kok River problem. The situation has improved. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with neighboring countries and is ready to implement measures to address water quality in all dimensions for the local population.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sasikarn Wattanachan, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra received a progress report from Mr. Chatuporn Buruspat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, along with relevant agencies, regarding the resolution of water quality issues in the Kok River. The river has been found to have contaminants exceeding acceptable standards in certain areas, impacting both the environment and the local way of life. The government has accelerated its efforts to implement comprehensive plans, including pollution control, water source restoration, and continuous monitoring of health impacts on the population.
In terms of international cooperation, the government has tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with coordinating efforts with the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to engage in discussions, exchange information, and establish guidelines for sustainable management of cross-border issues. This step is crucial for fostering cooperation in environmental conservation.
Environmental agencies, including the Pollution Control Department, the Water Resources Department, and the Digital and Aviation Technology Center, have conducted aerial surveys using photography technology to compile a detailed database of target areas. These surveys covered 10 sediment trap construction sites and 14 monkey cheek areas in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces, conducted between May 5-13.
For monitoring environmental quality and assessing public health impacts, the Pollution Control Department collected water and sediment samples from 24 locations along the Kok River and its tributaries in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces from May 26-30, 2025. Plans are underway to extend the inspection to the Ruak River to ensure a more comprehensive assessment.
The government is also drafting an order to appoint a special working group for coordinating international cooperation and monitoring environmental situations and health impacts in the Kok and Sai River basins. A list of names for this group is scheduled for consideration on June 4. Additionally, there is a plan to establish a ‘Water Quality Problem Solving Operations Center (Frontline)’ and a special coordination group to enhance local-level work efficiency.
Ms. Sasikarn emphasized that the government is committed to addressing the water quality issues in the Kok and Sai Rivers diligently and systematically, aiming to restore the natural water sources to balance and ensure they remain a stable and sustainable quality of life source for the local population.