Bangkok: The residents of Tha Ton Subdistrict in Mae Ai District have successfully opposed the construction of a sediment trapping weir in the Kok River, leading to the permanent cessation of the project. The decision came after a public hearing revealed strong local opposition, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to water quality issues.
According to Thai News Agency, the public hearing, chaired by Ms. Salinya Khamphakaew, Mae Ai District Chief, saw attendance from over 400 stakeholders, including community leaders, monks, civil society organizations, and local residents. Mr. Thirachun Bunsit, Director-General of the Department of Water Resources, presented the hearing’s results, which showcased a majority objection to the sedimentation weir due to concerns about sediment accumulation, pollution, and potential negative impacts on the ecosystem and residents’ health.
The villagers proposed several alternative solutions for the government to implement. These include establishing a reserve of clean water for consumption and agriculture, supporting community drinking water systems to alleviate household costs, and ensuring transparent water quality monitoring. Additionally, they emphasized the need for accessible communication formats like videos or 3D images to engage local ethnic groups effectively.
Mr. Bunsit confirmed that the plan to construct the weir has been halted, and the Department of Water Resources will now focus on implementing the community’s proposals. This includes working with the Department of Groundwater Resources to develop clean water sources and filtration systems and supporting village drinking water production systems. Coordination with the Royal Forest Department for additional land for artesian wells is also underway. The Office of Water Resources Region 1 has been tasked with installing water quality monitoring stations and CCTV cameras along the Kok River to ensure real-time public access to information.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, affirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing the needs of the local population, particularly in the Kok River area. He stressed that sedimentation weirs will not be constructed to avoid environmental and community impacts. Moreover, he instructed all relevant agencies to ensure transparency and public involvement in the implementation of the proposed projects.
The meeting also addressed the need for international cooperation, requesting the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to negotiate with upstream countries on wastewater management before it enters the Kok River. There is a call for expedited efforts both locally and internationally to restore the river’s water quality sustainably.