Culture
Mekong Flow Project and Ing River Conservation Efforts
Stakeholders met to discuss the Mekong Flow project, aiming to designate the lower Ing River as a Ramsar site, followed by traditional river conservation ceremonies.
On September 19, 2026, representatives from the Department of Water Resources, IUCN, and the Coca-Cola Foundation gathered in Chiang Rai to discuss the 'Mekong Flow' project. This initiative, funded by the Coca-Cola Foundation, operates across Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. In Thailand, the Living River Association is leading efforts to restore the lower Ing River and its floodplains, with the ultimate goal of achieving Ramsar site status for the area.
Following the planning discussions, local communities held a traditional 'River Blessing' ceremony and inaugurated a fish conservation zone on September 20, 2026, to mark National Canal and River Conservation Day. Approximately 200 local residents and officials, including Member of Parliament Rangsan Wanchai-thanawong, participated in the event.
For residents and visitors, these activities highlight the cultural and ecological significance of the Ing River wetlands. The ceremonies underscore the community's commitment to preserving local biodiversity and traditional practices. While the project aims to secure international recognition for the wetlands, the formal timeline for the Ramsar site registration remains to be confirmed. Travelers interested in local culture may find the Ing River area an important site for understanding community-led environmental stewardship in Northern Thailand.