UTHAI THANI, Thailand — Residents in a rural community in Uthai Thani are raising urgent concerns after enduring more than two months of murky, foul-smelling tap water that has reportedly caused skin irritation and health issues.
Villagers in Moo 4, Ban Wang Hin, in Ban Rai district showed reporters containers filled with dark, cloudy water emitting a strong odor. Despite attempts to filter the water, residents said the filter cartridges quickly turned brown, resembling muddy rust, highlighting the severity of contamination.
Hundreds of households have been affected, with many reporting itching and skin problems after using the water. Locals say they have repeatedly filed complaints with authorities and sought help through social media, but no long-term solution has been implemented.
A resident, Ms. Sukanya, said the community has been struggling without proper action despite ongoing appeals for assistance.
Local officials acknowledged the issue. The subdistrict administrative organization (SAO) has begun sending water trucks into the village, allowing residents to collect clean water for daily use while awaiting further intervention.
Community leaders explained that the current water supply comes from an agricultural groundwater well without proper filtration. The original village water system has failed due to a malfunctioning pump, possibly linked to structural issues in the well. With no remaining budget for repairs, the community remains in limbo.
Residents are now calling on relevant agencies to step in urgently and restore safe, usable water.
