Prachinburi:The Minister of Industry, Varawut Silpa-archa, has ordered the closure of factories found to be illegally operating and contaminating floodwaters with toxic waste in the Prachinburi Province. Factories responsible for oil spills and industrial waste leachate will face immediate suspension, with a halt on the transportation of raw materials. Additionally, Varawut has mandated that these businesses compensate for all damages caused to the state and the public.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Industry is actively addressing the issue, coordinating with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to seize assets of the offending factories. The Ministry's commitment includes daily operations to mitigate the problem, with teams working alongside local agencies. Factories have been instructed to cover stockpiles with tarpaulins to prevent further contamination.
Minister Varawut emphasized that factories causing environmental harm will bear the legal responsibility for all costs, including those impacting government agencies and public welfare. He noted that an amendment to the Factory Act is underway, strengthening the legal framework for such cases. The Ministry of Industry, through the Department of Industrial Works, is prepared to prosecute operators for all damages incurred.
Addressing criticisms regarding his focus on Suphan Buri amid widespread flooding, Varawut clarified his roles both as Minister of Industry and as a representative of his constituency. He assured that efforts are ongoing to address issues in all affected areas, despite the challenges of prioritizing diverse regional needs. Varawut reaffirmed his commitment to resolving both local and wider industrial problems, acknowledging the criticism but emphasizing the necessity of addressing all issues concurrently.