Pollution Crisis in Prachin Buri River Leads to Mass Fish Die-off
A severe pollution incident in the Prachin Buri River has caused widespread fish deaths, prompting calls for the closure of a Chinese-owned factory suspected of discharging wastewater.
A significant environmental crisis is unfolding along the Prachin Buri River, where large numbers of fish have been found dead. According to reports from Khaosod Online, Dr. Supaporn Pitiporn of Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital documented deep-water species, such as sole and pufferfish, struggling for air and dying along the riverbanks. The presence of oil slicks and the distress of these aquatic animals suggest the water is contaminated with toxic substances rather than suffering from simple oxygen depletion.
Local farmers have reported devastating losses. In Tha Tum sub-district, cage-culture farmers have lost entire stocks, with individual losses estimated at over 700,000 baht. Similar reports have emerged from the Bang Phluang sub-district, where fish farms have been severely impacted by the polluted water moving downstream.
Authorities are currently facing pressure to investigate and potentially shut down a Chinese-owned factory suspected of discharging wastewater into the river. For residents and visitors, this situation poses a significant health and environmental concern, as the water quality is clearly compromised. While the immediate impact on local livelihoods is evident, the full extent of the chemical contamination and the timeline for remediation remain to be confirmed by environmental officials. Residents are advised to avoid contact with the river water until further notice.
