Saraburi: The Pollution Control Department is taking serious action, searching for factories that are discharging chemicals into "Huai Takhe" stream, causing the water to turn black and emit a foul odor, and will prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law. The investigation is focused on identifying the sources of illegal wastewater discharge in Pak Khaosan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Saraburi Province.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, and Dr. Raveewan Phuridej, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, have expressed concern over the recurring problem. They have instructed the Pollution Control Department (PCD) to collaborate with Saraburi Province to conduct a thorough investigation. The aim is to collect environmental quality evidence, identify the perpetrators, and prosecute them decisively, while also identifying high-risk areas and establishing a monitoring network.
Dr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), revealed that the PCD is urgently monitoring environmental quality following the incident. Urgent action includes testing the quality of tap water produced at the Saraburi Municipal water pumping station, which meets the drinking water quality standards as per the Department of Health's 2020 regulations. On-site inspections showed that sluice gates were closed to prevent water from the Khlong Phriew reservoir from flowing into the Pa Sak River.
To ensure public safety in consumption, the PCD has collected water samples from the Khlong Phriew and Pa Sak River areas for close monitoring. Water quality checks at six points in three waterways-Khlong Ket, Khlong Nong Nam Khiao, and Huai Takhe-revealed dark-colored water with a pungent, chemical-like odor. Volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) were analyzed using the preliminary field assessment method called Headspace, with values ranging from 2.5 to 26 parts per million (ppm). High conductivity (EC) was detected in upstream areas where industrial plants are located, indicating contamination by dissolved substances in the water. For each water sample collected, 23 parameters will be analyzed, categorized into heavy metals, dissolved solids, and organic matter. Results will be available in seven days.
Furthermore, air samples were collected from three points covering upwind and downwind areas to analyze volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the atmosphere over a 24-hour period, covering 62 parameters. This data was used to inspect nine pollution sources, including six industrial plants and three other businesses. Water quality samples from these sources, covering 23 parameters, will be compared with existing water quality to establish correlations. Results will be available within seven days. Upon identification of offenders, strict legal action will be taken, including criminal prosecution with penalties such as imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both, as well as claims for damages under Sections 96 and 97 of the National Environmental Quality Promotion and Preservation Act B.E. 2535 (1992).
Dr. Surin emphasized that the PCD will use scientific tools and facts to identify the source of the chemical substance. If necessary, the PCD will seek cooperation from the Synchrotron Light Research Institute, the National Institute of Nuclear Technology, or the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency. The PCD is prepared to integrate law enforcement efforts with provinces and local administrative organizations to ensure the most effective enforcement of the law.