Chonburi, Thailand – Following complaints from residents in Pattaya that we reported on yesterday here at The Pattaya News about the alleged illegal discharge of wastewater into the Mabprachan Reservoir, a vital water source for the community, local authorities have launched an immediate investigation. The complaints centered on a drainage pipe near a popular cycling exercise area opposite a well-known restaurant, close to the Hot Two Point intersection on Phonpraphanimit Road 34.
Upon inspection, officials observed a large amount of oil and grease floating on the water’s surface at the pipe’s outlet, accompanied by a foul odor resembling wastewater. This raised concerns about the potential illegal discharge of untreated wastewater into the public reservoir. The affected area lies on the border between Nongprue Municipality and Pong Subdistrict Municipality.
Today, July 16th, 2025, Mr. Winai Inpitak, Mayor of Nongprue Municipality, and Mr. Anucha Phiarjai, Mayor of Pong Subdistrict Municipality, jointly inspected the site. Initial findings confirmed that the area falls under the jurisdiction of Nongprue Municipality. Accompanied by Ms. Nujarin Palachot, Director of the Public Health and Environment Division, and Mr. Beikchai Nilpanan, Director of the Sanitary Engineering Division, along with relevant officials, the team conducted an on-site investigation to assess the situation.
Ms. Nujarin stated that the investigation would focus on nearby businesses, as only a few establishments operate in the area. She noted visible oil and grease on the water, along with an unusual odor not typical of regular rainwater runoff. Authorities suspect that some businesses may be illegally discharging wastewater through the drainage system.
Officials are now tracing the drainage network to determine if businesses have obtained proper permits for connecting to the system or have installed required wastewater treatment facilities. If violations are found, immediate action will be taken, including orders to halt discharges. Civil engineers will further inspect the drainage infrastructure to identify any unauthorized connections.
Nongprue Municipality has directed all nearby businesses to suspend wastewater discharge into the drainage system pending a thorough quality assessment of treated wastewater. If the water fails to meet standards, businesses will be required to implement immediate corrective measures.
The municipality has pledged to expedite the investigation and ensure compliance to protect the reservoir’s environmental integrity and public health. Further updates will follow as the investigation progresses.
