Water Crises Eases In Eastern Seaboard Region

[george]

Water crisis eases in Thailand's eastern industrial hubs

RAYONG: -- The problem of water shortage in industrial areas in Thailand's eastern region has eased, with water supply now sufficient for use until the rainy season next year, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit.

Mr. Suriya said on Friday when leading a group of journalists to inspect the water situation in this eastern Rayong Province that water levels in local reservoirs had increased, thanks to recent downpours of rain and the government's measures to bring in more water from natural sources to address the water crisis.

"I now can say that there is no longer any water shortage in industrial hubs in the region, as the total water supply is currently sufficient for local use over the next 300 days. More downpours of rain are also expected," he told the journalists.

The deputy premier said the government would continue to take care of the water situation in the region with appropriate measures to be implemented to ensure sufficient water supply in order to serve growing local industries and economy in the long run.

"Among the planned long-run measures, a fresh water distilation project from sea water may be included if necessary to ensure the sufficient water supply in the long run," he noted.

Mr. Suriya stressed that the government would ensure enough water supply for both the local agricultural and industrial demand.

--TNA 2005-10-15