Chiang Mai:Mr. Phatthapong Leelaphat, a Member of Parliament for Chiang Mai Constituency 8 of the People's Party, has expressed grave concerns over the rising arsenic contamination levels found in residents across seven provinces in northern and northeastern Thailand. A total of 79 individuals have been identified with arsenic levels exceeding the safe limit, highlighting an expanding public health crisis.
According to Thai News Agency, the contamination is not confined to the North but is spreading towards the Mekong River basin in the Northeast. The Department of Disease Control reported 39 cases of arsenic poisoning in urine samples from a study group of 520 people at risk along the Mekong River, including six individuals in Loei, 17 in Nong Khai, six in Bueng Kan, and ten in Nakhon Phanom provinces. In the northern region, 40 individuals were affected, including 31 in Chiang Rai, seven in Chiang Mai, and two in Mae Hong Son provinces. Pending test results are expected from the Mae Sai River area in Chiang Rai, known for high arsenic levels in water.
Mr. Phatthapong highlighted the alarming increase in arsenic accumulation, particularly in Chiang Mai, where levels have tripled in a year. He urged the Department of Disease Control to refine their arsenic analysis techniques and to broaden screening criteria for at-risk populations. Although some of his proposals have been adopted, he emphasized the need for more comprehensive blood tests and public health advisories regarding heavy metal contamination.
The politician criticized the government's inaction despite being warned for nearly two years. Although the Department of Disease Control has addressed the issue within its capacity, Mr. Phatthapong stressed that resolving the root cause demands decisive government intervention. He noted the absence of effective control measures and called for international engagement to tackle the problem comprehensively.