Mae Sai Residents Raise Concerns Over Flooding and Water Safety

On July 30, 2026, Dr. Suebsakul Kijnukun from Mae Fah Luang University visited the Tham Pha Chom and Sai Lom Joy communities in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai, to assess environmental concerns. Residents reported that since 2021, the area has experienced frequent and severe flooding, often accompanied by significant mud and sediment deposits. Local community members believe these events are exacerbated by mining operations located less than 10 kilometers upstream, which they argue contribute to soil erosion and increased sedimentation in the Sai River.

Beyond flooding, residents expressed significant anxiety regarding the safety of their tap water. While the local water authority has attempted to source raw water from the Mekong River, reports from the Pollution Control Department indicate that traces of arsenic, heavy metals, and sediment persist in various areas.

For residents and visitors, these findings highlight potential risks regarding water quality and the unpredictability of flash flooding in the region. Dr. Suebsakul has suggested that addressing these environmental impacts should be treated as a national priority. Currently, the direct causal link between specific mining activities and the severity of the flooding remains a subject of local concern, and further official investigations are required to confirm the extent of the contamination and the long-term viability of the current water supply.