Foul wastewater flooding in Huai Yai, Pattaya, has killed large numbers of fish at a local farm, with the owner reporting losses of over 100,000 baht and urging authorities to investigate nearby land-filling activities and drainage impacts.
PATTAYA, Thailand – A fish farm in Huai Yai, Pattaya, has suffered severe losses after foul-smelling wastewater flooded into the area, killing large numbers of fish and causing damages estimated at more than 100,000 baht, according to the owner. At around 14:00 on June 18, reporters visited Village 4 in Huai Yai after local residents raised concerns about wastewater runoff affecting aquaculture ponds in the area.
At the site, the fish pond owned by Wut (surname withheld) was found filled with dark, contaminated water emitting a strong foul odor. The owner had already begun removing large quantities of dead and decomposing fish from the pond. Wut said the fish farm and rental fishing pond is his main source of income. However, after the contamination, tenants cancelled contracts and potential customers refused to use the site due to the polluted water and smell, leading to an immediate loss of revenue.
“The income from this pond is my family’s main livelihood. Now almost all the fish are dead. The damage is at least over 100,000 baht,” he said. He explained that the problem began after nearby land was filled and raised for development, with soil and construction materials brought in. He alleged that rubble, broken concrete, stones, and other waste materials were also dumped in the area.
When heavy rain occurred, polluted runoff from the filled land reportedly flowed into public drainage channels before entering his fish pond, causing contamination and mass fish deaths. Wut said the land filling may have blocked natural drainage routes, preventing proper water flow and causing stagnant wastewater to accumulate and eventually seep into his property.
He added that he had tried to resolve the issue with contractors and landowners but had not received any resolution or compensation. He is now calling on relevant authorities to investigate whether the land development was carried out legally and whether proper drainage systems were installed. Huai Yai Subdistrict Municipality has acknowledged the complaint and said its engineering and environmental teams will inspect the site to assess the situation, determine responsibility, and ensure fairness for all parties involved.
