Bangkok: Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, a party-list MP and leader of the People's Party, has called upon the government to tackle the toxic pollution crisis affecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak, Mekong, Salween, and Kraburi rivers, which impact residents in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Ranong provinces. He posed a direct question to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Minister Suchart Chomklin, asking whether they will stand with the Thai people or with the mine owners responsible for the pollution.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong highlighted that the government has not prioritized the people's demands and has failed to use its authority to enact necessary legislation or allocate sufficient budget to address the crisis effectively. He cited an example from June 5th, World Environment Day, when a network of civil society organizations marched from Chiang Mai to the Chiang Rai Provincial Hall. Despite their efforts, no representative from the Cabinet was present to receive their letter, only an assistant minister, demonstrating the government's neglect of the issue.
Mr. Nattapong further criticized the government's inaction, suggesting three urgent measures: utilizing personnel, enforcing regulations, and allocating budget. He emphasized the need for immediate government action, including sending representatives to multilateral forums with neighboring countries to develop a clear action plan for regular monitoring of environmental impacts. This plan should include assessments of soil, water, agricultural products, and public health impacts.
He also mentioned the government's failure to use its authority under Section 104 of the first Act to prevent Thailand from being a transit route for smuggling toxic minerals. Mr. Nattapong urged the government to issue legislation requiring prior permission for the import of rare earth minerals, ensuring they originate from environmentally responsible sources.
Regarding budget allocation, Mr. Nattapong pointed out the long-term impact on the public, with toxic residues affecting water, soil, and agricultural products. He urged the government to allocate funds promptly to mitigate these impacts. In the upcoming draft budget bill for fiscal year 2027, he expects to see projects aimed at improving tap water quality, modifying crop cultivation practices, increasing laboratory facilities for testing, and compensating affected businesses.