Bangkok: Ms. Thirat Rattanawanich, Deputy Minister of Interior and Director of the Kok River Water Problem Resolution Center in Chiang Rai Province, is spearheading efforts to tackle arsenic contamination in the Kok River. She chaired a crucial meeting with experts in forensic science, environmental engineering, and other relevant parties to address the issue of transboundary pollution.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting brought together Dr. Sompong Klaynongsruang, Director of NRCT, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanapol Penrat, Director of NRCT's Database and Digital System Mission Unit, and several stakeholders at Meeting Room 3, 15th Floor, NRCT, SM Tower Building (Sanam Pao), Bangkok. The session was also accessible via Zoom Meeting. The attendees discussed the interpretation of forensic science data and risk management strategies following the discovery of arsenic contamination in the Kok River.
The meeting highlighted the results of environmental sampling and preliminary findings from forensic laboratories, focusing on the health risks to the public due to arsenic and heavy metal contamination. The discussions emphasized integrating scientific data with management strategies for risk areas, promoting clear communication, and fostering cooperation among local communities. Additionally, a guideline was proposed to implement the Intelligence System of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) as a citizen science system, enhanced with artificial intelligence, to tackle urgent environmental pollution crises.
Ms. Thirat emphasized the government's commitment to environmental safety and public health, particularly in border areas potentially affected by activities in neighboring countries. She underscored the need for proactive collaboration among government sectors, private entities, educational institutions, and the public, as well as international cooperation to address the root causes of the issue. The government aims to restore the Kok River comprehensively to ensure the sustainability of this vital water source for local communities.
The Ministry of Interior will maintain close coordination with central and local governments to ensure efficient problem-solving operations and swift responses to public concerns. The government reassures that the community will not face environmental challenges alone.