Chiang Mai Adopts Technology For A Clean Songkran

[george]

Chiang Mai adopts technology for a cleaner Songkran

CHIANG MAI: -- Chiang Mai authorities have adopted new technology to ensure water provided by the city for next week's Songkran festivities is clean and safe.

The city's waterworks will use Effective Micro-organism technology (EM) to keep water clean and free of dangerous bacteria, Boonlert Buranupakorn, Chiang Mai's mayor, said yesterday.

The technology uses naturally occurring "effective micro-organisms", bacteria that can kill bacteria harmful to humans, which is essential during the country's annual water fight.

This natural method is not only environmentally friendly, but it also will save the city money.

"Last year, we spent over Bt200,000 on chemical substances used to clean water for Songkran, but this year, we spent only Bt20,000," said Boonlert.

"I am pleased and confident that we have created a safe and fun environment for those who will be enjoying this year's festivities in Chiang Mai."

He also said this new approach was safer than using chemical substances because EM technology uses nature to kill nature. As a result, there will be no residual chemicals left in the city's water supplies, he said.

Boonlert said that one litre of concentrated EM water can be mixed with up to 10,000 litres of regular water.

--The Nation 2004-04-09