Key facts
- Thailand and Myanmar have signed an agreement to combat transboundary river pollution.
- Critics argue the pact is insufficient to address the crisis.
- Concerns include unregulated mining operations in Myanmar and limited access to information.
- Residents have protested increased mining activities along the river's source.
An agreement recently signed by Thailand and Myanmar to address transboundary river pollution stemming from mining operations has been deemed inadequate by Thai politicians and civil society organizations. Critics argue the pact fails to tackle the crisis effectively, pointing to concerns over unregulated mining activities in Myanmar and restricted access to crucial information.
Residents in areas affected by the pollution, such as Tha Ton sub-district, have voiced their opposition through protests, demanding an end to mining and restoration of the river and local livelihoods. The increased mining, particularly for rare-earth minerals and gold, at the river's source in Myanmar has been a significant point of contention.