The management of a suspended gold mine in Phichit have challenged a report by an expert which says the mine's activities have caused adverse health impacts on the local community.
Pakorn Sukhum, CEO of Akara Resources Plc, said results of blood tests conducted on villagers by Central Institute of Forensic Science (CIFS) chief Porntip Rojanasunan earlier this week may not necessarily be related to mining.
The results showed high levels of arsenic and manganese in some samples.
A 30-day suspension order issued by the Department of Primary Industries and Mines on Tuesday was based on the results of blood tests. Blood samples from 730 villagers living near the gold mine were given to CIFS for testing in November.
Mr Pakorn insisted the mine has adhered to state rules on safety standards and has submitted an environmental report to the Pollution Control Department every three months for the past seven years.
He said he would meet Primary Industries and Mines chief Surapong Thianthong today to discuss the matter, adding the suspension had tainted the company's image.
He also said it would adversely affect the mine workers.
Mr Pakorn said the mining firm has provided the local community with fresh water for consumption to allay any fears mining work may have contaminated local water sources.
Meanwhile, villagers yesterday claimed that mining was still going on.
They claimed they heard explosions coming from the mine yesterday afternoon.
Local leader Suekanya Theerachatdamrong said villagers would monitor the mine to ensure it follows the suspension order.
She also expressed concern over the mine's safety measures saying toxic substances could easily contaminate the air, soil and eventually water sources.