Officials Confirm Black Water in Prachinburi River Within Safety Limits
Authorities investigated reports of black water flowing into the Prachinburi River after a viral Facebook clip raised pollution fears. Preliminary lab tests show the water meets safety standards, with only a mild odor of decaying vegetation detected. Officials ordered further analysis and continue flood‑recovery and water‑restoration efforts in the area.
On October 17, 2024, Deputy Governor Chanathip Kokmani, acting as provincial governor, led an inspection team to the Phet Em drainage gate after the viral clip sparked worries about chemical contamination. Joined by provincial industry officials, local administrators, irrigation officials, and civil society networks, the team found that while the water looked black, samples taken showed no heavy turbidity or darkness, only a mild odor of rotting vegetation from floodwaters. Initial laboratory tests measured pH at 6.58, total dissolved solids at 73.6 mg/L, electrical conductivity at 147.2 µS/cm, turbidity at 34.4 NTU, and dissolved oxygen at 3.76 mg/L—all within standard limits for surface water. Nonetheless, the deputy governor ordered the Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office to coordinate with Region 7’s Pollution Control Office for a more thorough analysis, and instructed Kabin Buri district and local bodies to monitor the situation and accelerate microbial treatment to restore public water sources. In parallel, officials continued flood‑recovery work at Prachin Village municipal area, clearing debris and cleaning homes with help from the city municipality, former mayor, and territorial defense volunteers, allowing residents to resume normal life and fish in local waters.
