BANGKOK, Thailand – The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has reaffirmed its adherence to open disclosure, stating that recent reports on heavy metal contamination in northern Thailand’s river systems are based on verified data and published to keep the public properly informed.
The PCD said assessments of water and sediment quality across the Kok River basin and connected waterways—including the Sai, Ruak, and Mekong rivers—were conducted in coordination with multiple agencies. The findings offer authorities a clear operational picture, enabling timely and coordinated responses.
Monitoring detected elevated arsenic levels in sediment at several locations, attributed in part to dry-season conditions such as reduced water flow. However, testing confirmed that heavy metal concentrations in aquatic animals remain within safe consumption limits, allaying public health concerns.
Officials said cross-sector monitoring of water, sediment, agricultural products, and public health indicators is ongoing, alongside consumer guidance on safe food practices. The department is also engaging neighboring countries to address contamination at its source, stepping up a comprehensive approach to environmental protection and public safety. (NNT)
