PRESS RELEASE:
The Ministry of Industry is currently investigating the disappearance of over 10,000 tonnes of hazardous cadmium tailings from a smelting plant in Samut Sakhon province. The shortfall was identified during a routine inspection led by Industry Minister Pimphattra Wichaikul, revealing a major discrepancy between the documented transport of 13,450 tonnes from Tak province and the mere 2,440 tonnes found on site.
In response to these findings, the ministry has convened a panel to scrutinize the mishandling of these toxic substances across both implicated provinces. Tak Provincial Industry Office Chief Napat Techasiripat has been reassigned to the ministry’s central office while the investigation proceeds. Directives have also been issued to ensure the immediate repatriation and safe burial of the tailings back in Tak.
The situation has raised serious environmental and health concerns, with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) pointing out the dangers posed by the cadmium waste. Stored in large bags susceptible to producing dust, this form of waste increases the risk of soil and water contamination.
Health and environmental experts have warned of the severe risks associated with cadmium exposure, which can potentially lead to cancer through the consumption of contaminated food or air. As a precautionary measure, the Samut Sakhon governor has imposed a 90-day access ban on the factory and its surrounding area.
The Tak Provincial Industry Office has since defended its actions, stating that the transport of the tailings was conducted in accordance with Department of Industrial Works regulations and that the Samut Sakhon factory operates under a valid license.
The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.
