Tri Trang Beach cleared after wastewater complaints
The response came after social media posts raised concerns among residents and tourists about possible pollution at the popular beach.
Tri Trang Beach was declared clear by Phuket officials after an urgent late-night inspection on April 23, following social media complaints about possible wastewater pollution. Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn ordered the investigation, which was led by Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong and involved multiple agencies at the popular beach.
Inspection Findings and Timeline
Officials from Patong Municipality, the Environmental and Pollution Control Office Region 15 Phuket, and local administrators joined the inspection team. They reported that both seawater and drainage outlets at Tri Trang Beach showed no signs of sewage discharge or abnormality.
Local beach massage operators told authorities that images of black water circulating online were likely from an incident in mid-March, not reflective of current beach conditions.
Ongoing Review and Legal Framework
Authorities have requested CCTV footage from nearby hotels to trace the source of last month’s incident and stated that legal action will follow if violations are confirmed. Under the National Environmental Quality Promotion and Preservation Act B.E. 2535, businesses illegally discharging wastewater or failing to comply with environmental reporting requirements can be fined up to B1 million, with additional daily penalties of up to B100,000 until compliance.
Hotels breaching regulations may be ordered to halt wastewater discharge immediately, with potential for temporary closure or licence revocation for severe or repeated non-compliance. The Phuket Provincial Administration has called on residents and businesses to report suspected environmental violations to Patong Municipality or the Kathu District Office.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/tri-trang-beach-cleared-after-wastewater-complaints-100011.php
