Thai Pheu Thai Party submits evidence of water pollution from Myanmar's rare earth mining sites to Chinese government via Chinese Embassy

Mekong, July 15 Leaders of the Thai Pheu Thai Party have submitted a large amount of evidence to the Chinese government through the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok, calling for action to address the extremely dangerous water pollution occurring in rivers flowing into Thailand, caused by illegal rare earth and gold mining operations in Myanmar's border regions. On July 13, a group led by party leader and Member of Parliament Natthaphong Raopanyawut and Chiang Mai MP Phetcharapong met with the Chinese Ambassador at the Chinese Embassy. They presented evidence detailing the water pollution incidents, scientifically investigated and uncovered, in connection with 2,676 mining sites. The Pheu Thai Party requested that the Chinese government investigate its mining sites that are causing transboundary water pollution and cooperate in restoring water resources to their previous condition. Evidence presented included investigations by experts from Thailand's Pollution Control Department, Thammasat University, and Naresuan University, as well as measurement and investigation data of water pollution in the Nam Khun, Mae Sai, Rok, and Mekong rivers. Specifically, the dissolution of arsenic and lead in the Karburi River far exceeds dangerous levels. This water pollution reaches agricultural crops and fish caught in the rivers through the food chain, severely impacting the health of local residents. Therefore, without intending to assign blame, the party requested that the Chinese government investigate and take action regarding its mining sites. The Pheu Thai Party leader stated to the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand that all relevant countries should cooperate to restore the rivers to their natural state. He added that this submission is being announced to the public because it concerns everyone. Krua Klin Ref:Khaosod