Nakhon ratchasima: The Consumer Protection Board in Nakhon Ratchasima has been tasked with investigating the issue of contaminated drinking water to ensure that consumers receive fair protection.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, the Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, issued the directive following a warning from the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Public Health Office. Random checks had detected Salmonella spp. contamination in bottled water sold in the area, posing potential risks to consumer health. Ms. Supamas emphasized that the investigation aligns with the concerns of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who prioritizes public health safety and consumer rights protection. She also urged consumers to be vigilant by checking product labels, sources, and production standards when selecting bottled water.
Ms. Supamas further instructed Mr. Ronnarong Poolpipat, Secretary-General of the Consumer Protection Board, to have officials from the Consumer Protection Board Region 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima Province inspect the water production facility. The inspection revealed that the facility was originally a tire processing plant, which had been registered as a water production facility, raising concerns about potential contamination and quality of the drinking water. The Consumer Protection Board plans to work with the Department of Business Development, the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Public Health Office, and other relevant agencies to verify the business's compliance with relevant laws. Strict action will be taken if any violations are discovered.
Mr. Ronnarong explained that contaminated drinking water is classified as 'substandard food' under the Food Act B.E. 2522 (1979), Section 25 (3), with penalties under Section 60, which include fines up to 50,000 baht. The Consumer Protection Board has the authority to prosecute on behalf of consumers who have suffered harm or damage, as per Section 39 of the Consumer Protection Act B.E. 2522 (1979). Consumers affected by the contaminated water can file complaints with the board to negotiate settlements or pursue legal action. Ms. Supamas advised the public to report unfair treatment or seek advice through the Consumer Protection Board hotline 1166, the OCPB Connect application, or the website www.ocpb.go.th, as well as at regional Consumer Protection Centers and local administrative organizations.