Chiang mai: A network of citizens committed to safeguarding the Kok, Ruak, and Mekong rivers has called on China to urgently tackle the issue of transboundary toxic substances. The group submitted a letter to a representative of the Chinese Consulate, emphasizing the urgent need for China, as a mining operator in a neighboring country, to address the pollution problem.
According to Thai News Agency, more than 30 members of the Kok, Ruak, and Mekong River Protection Network marched to the Chinese Consulate on Chang Lo Road in the Hai Ya Subdistrict of Mueang Chiang Mai District. The demonstrators carried banners with messages such as "Stop the Toxic Mine" and "How Sincere is China?" as they submitted samples of contaminated water and Kok River fish larb to the Consulate as a symbolic gesture. Their demands focused on urging China to take immediate action against the transboundary toxic pollution, which they claim is affecting their environment.
The Chinese Consulate-General had announced its closure to the public for the day, but tensions escalated when clashes erupted between police and protesters. As a result, two protesters were injured, including one individual who suffered a fractured left arm and required hospitalization.