Pattaya Mobilises to Combat Seaweed Menace at Krating Rai Beach

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Pictures courtesy: Pattaya News

 

Pattaya is taking decisive action against a pungent and pervasive problem—unprecedented levels of seaweed have invaded Krating Rai Beach, emitting a stench that poses a threat to the city's vibrant beach scene.

 

Yesterday, Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai spearheaded an extensive operation involving the Cleaning Control Division, Pollution Control Division, and Natural Resources and Environment Department.

 

Over 35 officers armed with five hefty six-wheeler trucks worked tirelessly to remove the seaweed, which has accumulated in unprecedented quantities, amounting to tens of tonnes.

 

“Typically, seaweed visits our shores annually, but never in such overwhelming amounts,” commented an official in the clean-up team.

 

While the seaweed's presence diminished during the Covid-19 years from 2020 to 2022, the current infestation presents a major challenge to Pattaya's coastal economy and environment. Decomposing seaweed emits foul odours, potentially deterring tourists and residents and disrupting the local ecosystem.

 

Officials aim to clear the beach swiftly to ensure it welcomes tourists back and offers an enjoyable experience for locals. With the city relying heavily on tourism, a pristine beach is crucial to Pattaya's continued success as a holiday destination.

In the words of Associate Professor Vijak Rajatanavin, president of Silpakorn University and an expert on coastal management, "The ecological balance of our beaches is delicate; maintaining it is essential for both the environment and our tourism-driven economy."

 

While tackling the seaweed issue, Pattaya authorities are also cracking down on illicit activities. Pattaya City police and Chon Buri Immigration conducted an anti-drug operation targeting high-risk areas. A commercial building on Soi Pattaya Klang 16 saw six arrests after individuals tested positive for drugs, underscoring the city’s commitment to safety and order.

 

Pattaya’s twin objectives of environmental preservation and crime reduction demonstrate a robust commitment to maintaining its status as a world-class tourist destination. Addressing both the immediate nuisance of seaweed and broader safety concerns, city officials are paving the way for a cleaner, safer, and more hospitable Pattaya.

 

With concerted efforts underway, the city aims to ensure beaches are once again pristine havens, free from odour and clutter, ready to greet tourists from around the globe. In this ongoing battle against natural and social challenges, Pattaya is stepping up as a resilient leader in preserving its treasured coastal appeal, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-02-20

 

 

[JoePai]

a pristine beach

 

Oh, where is it ?

[Maybole]

It is excellent fertilizer. Potato growers in Ayrshire used to collect  it every spring until environmental concerns caused it to stop.

[jacko45k]

6 hours ago, Maybole said:

It is excellent fertilizer. Potato growers in Ayrshire used to collect  it every spring until environmental concerns caused it to stop.

I was wondering  where they might be dumping it. 

[mikebell]

Can you smoke it?

[black tabby12345]

13 hours ago, Maybole said:

It is excellent fertilizer. Potato growers in Ayrshire used to collect  it every spring until environmental concerns caused it to stop.

 

Indeed.

I felt in the same way.

That way, it becomes useful resources, instead of waste.