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Arsenic in Thai rivers: Alarm for the Mekong region!
Thailand is fighting against contaminated rivers. Ministry emphasizes international cooperation to combat arsenic contamination.
Arsenic in Thai rivers: Alarm for the Mekong region!
In recent days, the discussion about the polluted rivers in Thailand has intensified. Mr. Surin Wakkritthamrong, Director of the Department of Environmental Control, presented on November 16 the alarming situation caused by arsenic contamination in water bodies, particularly in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces. Loud Thaitabloid The Thai Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) is actively working to combat these contaminants.
The situation is particularly critical in the northeast of the country, where the Mekong flows. Deputy Prime Minister Suchaid Chomklin emphasized the need for international forums to develop solutions together with neighboring countries, including China. Fundamental discussions on tackling pollution in the Mekong region have already taken place at an HSBC environmental forum in China.
International cooperation necessary
Prolonging the environmental crises requires clear measures. During a meeting of the Water Quality Improvement Subcommittee on November 13, the importance of international cooperation was highlighted. Deputy Prime Minister Chomklin called for strengthening cooperation with Myanmar and actively using the Mekong Commission (MRC) and the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Group (MLC). There is a call for an international standard for the management of waste from mining activities as mining activities are increasing in the countries neighboring the Mekong, affecting not only Thailand but the entire sub-region.
The discovery of arsenic in some northeastern provinces has prompted extensive investigations into the affected waters. The Deputy Prime Minister and his colleagues must now clarify whether the causes of the contamination are of natural origin or possibly stem from national activities or transboundary pollution. This could also affect the impact on the diverse and rich natural resources of the ASEAN region.
Similar challenges in the region
Loud Greenpeace and EARTH, transboundary pollution in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) is a problem that requires urgent action. The organizations warn that without immediate action, environmental conditions could threaten stability and peace in the region. The communities in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai are particularly affected, as they suffer from the health and economic consequences.
The causes of these cross-border problems are complex and are linked to industrial activities such as agriculture, mining and fossil fuel production. Under current conditions, it is of utmost importance to strengthen environmental governance and fulfill core rights to a healthy environment. Greenpeace urges the need for a legally binding ASEAN Protocol on Environmental Rights that will protect people's rights to health and a clean environment while promoting transparent and sustainable practices.
The challenges are diverse, be it from climate-related disasters or the pressure of cross-border activities. It is up to ASEAN leaders to initiate the necessary reforms to not only combat transboundary pollution, but also develop a plan that makes the region's future secure, sustainable and inclusive.
The discussion about environmental pollution should not only be viewed locally, but requires a comprehensive perspective that goes far beyond our own borders. The time for action is running out, and by joining forces a ray of hope can perhaps be achieved for the region.