Concerns Rise as Contamination in Kok River Threatens Communities

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

The Kok River, a vital lifeline for communities in northern Thailand, has become a source of concern due to high levels of arsenic contamination. As residents in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai rely heavily on the river for agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, the discovery of hazardous heavy metals has incited fear and uncertainty.

In Ban Huai Kum, Chiang Rai, 63-year-old farmer Supin Kamjai laments her failing crops, having ceased using river water due to contamination concerns. Nearby, children in the community have developed red, itchy rashes, prompting questions about the river's safety. Yet, no formal health assessments have been conducted, according to community rights advocate Boonchai Phanasawangwong.

The issue came to light late last year when the river's clear waters turned murky. Recent tests revealed significant arsenic contamination, with levels in Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai, exceeding safe thresholds. The Department of Health has confirmed health risks associated with arsenic and lead exposure, including skin rashes, diarrhoea, and potentially severe long-term effects.

The contamination is believed to stem from mining activities in Myanmar’s Shan State, near the river's headwaters. Environmentalists point to 23 gold mining sites, lacking environmental assessments, as the source of the sediment carrying arsenic and lead into the river system. Satellite imagery highlights mining operations in the region, prompting calls for action.

Sen Cheewapap Cheewatham has urged the Thai government to swiftly identify and address the chemical sources, warning against a repeat of past environmental disasters, such as the Klity Creek contamination in Kanchanaburi. Efforts by Mae Fah Luang University have shown alarming arsenic levels in connected rivers, raising concerns about contamination during floods.

The impact extends beyond health issues. The Karen Ruammit Elephant Camp, previously affected by floods, now suffers an 80% drop in visitors due to arsenic fears. Meanwhile, farmers like Thanet Maneekorn express distrust in even groundwater safety.

Residents from 13 Chiang Rai communities petitioned the governor on April 30th for urgent testing, communication, and screenings. Community representative Thaweesak Maneewan and advocate Boonsri Panasawangwong emphasize the disruption in daily life caused by contamination and the need for government action.

In response, the Thai government convened an emergency meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong. The focus was on inter-agency collaboration and addressing upstream mining practices. Deputy Minister of the Interior, Theerarat Samrejvanich, stressed cooperation with Myanmar to halt unsafe mining operations.

As the Kok River continues its journey, the fight to safeguard its integrity and provide clean water for future generations is underway. The communities are united in their call for a swift resolution to restore the river's health and vitality.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-06