RAYONG, Thailand – Residents in Ban Chang district, Rayong, are calling for government action over a large IT factory construction project backed by Chinese investors, alleging 24-hour construction, heavy dust, noise pollution and changes to local waterways. Residents of Huai Mahat community in Village 6, Ban Chang Subdistrict, said they have been affected by the massive construction site, which covers more than 100 rai of land. The project includes a large construction area, worker accommodation and a market for laborers.
Local resident Noi, 60, said the project, described as a major IT data center development, has continued around the clock, creating loud noise from piling work, dust and air pollution. He said the conditions became unbearable for his family, forcing them to move out and rent a house elsewhere. He added that previous complaints to relevant authorities had not resulted in progress and urged officials to investigate both environmental impacts and government oversight.
Ban Chang District village headman Uthai Saoman said the project is located near the Huai Mahat–Khao Phu Don mountain area, which still contains relatively rich forest and wildlife habitat. The land was previously an old golf course before being sold to Chinese investors for industrial development. Uthai said local residents were never informed about the project or invited to provide opinions before construction began. Residents also raised concerns over the alleged filling of Phayun Canal near the factory entrance to make way for construction. They said the change may affect the natural water flow, but no government agency has yet taken visible action.
The community fears future environmental impacts, including high electricity consumption, cooling systems, water usage, wastewater management and electronic waste from the facility. Residents are calling for a full inspection before the factory begins operations. A sign at the project site identifies the developer, construction contractor and project consultants. The project is described as a large IT data center with a total usable area of 57,130.35 square meters. The main building is approximately 92 meters wide and 192 meters long and remains under construction. Authorities and the project operator have not yet issued public statements regarding the complaints. Further updates are expected as officials review the concerns raised by residents and community leaders.
