BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is expediting efforts to address pollution in the Prachinburi River Basin by preparing to propose its designation as a pollution control zone, expanding water quality monitoring, and investigating potential contamination sources. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana announced on November 8, 2026, that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is preparing supporting information for the proposed designation, which would include the Prachinburi River Basin and its tributaries.
At its November 5 meeting, the Pollution Control Committee reviewed requests from local communities and affected residents. The committee tasked the Pollution Control Department (PCD), the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning, and relevant subcommittees with conducting further studies before submitting the proposal to the National Environment Board.
The PCD has collected water samples in response to reports of fish deaths in Ban Tham Subdistrict and complaints of blackened water near the Phet Chaloem Water Gate. Additional monitoring will include the Prachinburi and Bang Pakong rivers, inspections of potential pollution sources in industrial areas, and sediment sampling to assess heavy metal accumulation.
The spokesperson emphasized that the investigation must consider water quality, pollution sources, water flow, and possible contamination in river sediments to determine appropriate corrective measures. She clarified that the Prachinburi River Basin has not been declared a pollution control zone. The proposal is still under review and requires consideration by the National Environment Board.
She also noted that authorities are awaiting laboratory results before determining the exact cause of the reported pollution or confirming the safety of local water and aquatic life. The spokesperson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to evidence-based investigations and coordinated watershed management to protect natural resources, public health, and community well-being. (NNT)
