Bangkok: The Pollution Control Department (PCD) is taking definitive steps to address arsenic contamination in the Salween River by coordinating with the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) to leverage satellite technology for a comprehensive analysis. This initiative aims to tackle contamination issues affecting the Kok, Sai, Mekong, and Salween river basins. An important meeting of the Subcommittee on Surface Water Quality Resolution has been scheduled for November 13 to expedite solutions to arsenic and other heavy metal contaminations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Surin Worakithamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, announced that the PCD will collaborate with the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) to employ satellite data to pinpoint the sources of arsenic contamination in the Salween River. This involves examining satellite images of the river basin across upstream, midstream, and downstream regions to identify potential contaminant sources and monitor environmental conditions and sediment changes over different seasons.
Mr. Surin emphasized the importance of integrating satellite technology with field surveys, a strategy that will facilitate a systematic understanding of contamination causes and aid in crafting targeted, sustainable solutions. Recent water quality inspections at eight locations in Sop Moei and Mae Sariang districts, Mae Hong Son Province, conducted between November 5 and 6, detected arsenic levels that, while present, did not exceed water quality standards. The highest concentration measured was 0.01 milligrams per liter, which reduced to 0.005 milligrams per liter following alum precipitation.
Comparing these findings with results from the Chiang Mai University Health Science Research Institute in September 2015, which recorded a peak arsenic level of 0.05 milligrams per liter, the PCD speculates that discrepancies may arise from variations in water volume and seasonal changes. To further investigate, the PCD plans to gather additional water and sediment samples for detailed analysis of arsenic and other heavy metals at an environmental laboratory.
Mr. Surin also conveyed that Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has expressed concern over the situation. Consequently, a meeting of the Subcommittee on Driving Surface Water Quality Resolution is set for November 13 to accelerate efforts addressing arsenic and heavy metal contamination in the Kok, Sai, Mekong, and Salween Rivers.
The upcoming meeting will explore integrated strategies involving multiple agencies to manage water resources effectively, ensure safe aquatic animal consumption, support local crop cultivation, enhance public health surveillance, and implement measures to prevent transboundary water pollution, thereby mitigating heavy metal accumulation in ecosystems.