ขนาดอักษร |
Environmental quality monitoring centers have been established at four locations along the Kok, Sai, and Mekong Rivers to provide consultation services to the public.

Ms. Preeyaporn Suwanaged, Director General of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), revealed that in response to Prime Minister’s (Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra) concern over arsenic contamination in the Kok and Sai Rivers, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on), has instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to prioritize public awareness and communication, and to provide consultation services to the public.

Ms. Preeyaporn stated that, as part of a proactive approach, Mr. Jatuporn Buruspat (Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment) has instructed the establishment of four environmental quality monitoring centers in the following locations:

  1. The Thai Traditional Medicine Center, Tha Don Subdistrict Administrative Organization, the Tha Ton Bridge, Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai Province;
  2. Kok River Public Park, at the Chiang Rai Provincial Hall, next to the Mae Fah Luang Bridge, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province;
  3. Mae Sai Border Checkpoint 1, Mae Sai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province; and
  4. The Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province.

To ensure local engagement, representatives from public health agencies, administrative authorities, and local communities will be invited to participate in the operation of these centers.

The role of the environmental quality monitoring centers will include testing water quality and displaying results publicly to reassure the community. The centers will also communicate information to the public, receive complaints related to contamination in the Kok and Sai Rivers, provide education on self-protection, and offer guidance on safe water usage for consumption and agriculture. Citizens can visit the centers for inquiries or consultations during official hours. Additionally, updates and information will be regularly broadcast via community radio systems, Ms. Preeyaporn added.