File photo for reference only

 

Bangkok officials are investigating mass fish deaths in Khlong Samreh, linked to ongoing construction of the Purple Line electric train. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has called for immediate action to address the environmental impact.

 

Deputy Bangkok Governor Wissanu Subsompon, alongside BMA's Drainage Department and environmental agencies, recently surveyed the affected area near Soi Somdet Phra Chao Taksin 21, by Wat Ratchawarint in Thon Buri district. Reports of significant fish deaths prompted this urgent response.

 

Preliminary observations indicate that construction for the Purple Line's new metro station has disrupted the canal's ecosystem. Builders blocked sections along Somdet Phra Chao Taksin Road, hindering water flow and leading to contamination. The stagnant water environment appears to have contributed to the mass fish deaths.

 

Officials also noted excessive soil dumping, resulting in sediment accumulation. There is a strong suspicion that large amounts of bentonite, a chemical used in soil stabilisation, may have leaked into the canal, further affecting aquatic life.

 

In response, the BMA has directed the Drainage Department to commence the removal of fish carcasses and to flush the canal to improve water quality. Additionally, the Water Quality Management Office will conduct thorough testing to pinpoint the contamination sources and assess the full extent of the ecological damage.

 

Environmental experts from Thon Buri district and the Department of Environment have been deployed for ongoing monitoring. This ensures that swift and efficient measures are taken to prevent further harm to the canal's ecosystem.

 

The construction contractor has been fined 10,000 baht (approximately 285 USD) under the Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of 1992. They have been granted a seven-day window to rectify the situation. Should they fail to take the necessary corrective measures, the Drainage Department will consult with the Department of Public Works to consider halting the project.

 

This incident highlights the delicate balance between urban development and environmental preservation. The BMA's swift action underscores the importance of maintaining ecological standards in ongoing construction projects across Bangkok.

 

As the investigation unfolds, affected residents and environmental advocates are watching closely. They hope for a resolution that prevents further ecological damage while holding those responsible accountable.

 

The situation in Khlong Samreh serves as a stark reminder of the need for rigorous environmental oversight in the city’s development plans. The authorities are expected to update the public on findings and actions to mitigate the impact and prevent future incidents.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-09-03

 

 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The construction contractor has been fined 10,000 baht

 

Oooh, that will scare them 🙄

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Preliminary observations indicate that construction for the Purple Line's new metro station has disrupted the canal's ecosystem. Builders blocked sections along Somdet Phra Chao Taksin Road, hindering water flow and leading to contamination. The stagnant water environment appears to have contributed to the mass fish deaths.

Great work... 

So no "EIA Approved" signs like those tossed up in front of new condo projects?

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The construction contractor has been fined 10,000 baht (approximately 285 USD) under the Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of 1992

 

That'll teach 'em! They will really miss 10,000 Bt.

2 hours ago, khunjeff said:

 

Oooh, that will scare them 🙄

 

If it's ever paid... 

Can anybody identify the type of fish?

1 minute ago, Peabody said:

Can anybody identify the type of fish?

 

Thai fish innit

The 10k THB fine might not scare the culprit, but things like this likely discourage tourists.  As the government worries about declining tourism, you would really think that they might realize that all the pollution in Thailand such as the smog in winter from field burning and smoke spewing cars, the plastic pollution all over beaches, etc can really give Thailand a bad reputation amongst the tourists.

2 hours ago, Peabody said:

Can anybody identify the type of fish?

 

Hard to tell from a stock photo that looks more like a mangrove beach than an urban khlong.

 

2 hours ago, impulse said:

 

Hard to tell from a stock photo that looks more like a mangrove beach than an urban khlong.

 

I must admit I was wondering how far from Bangkok does the Purple Line go.