The National Human Rights Commission has supported the government's decision to ban gold mining nationwide, saying the nation lacks mechanisms to protect people from its affects.
In its statement released on Friday, the commission praised Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's decision to end gold mining and exploration nationwide by the end of this year, and ordering authorities to help people affected by the industry and its waste.
The commission said it had followed up on problems relating to mining at many places and found many limitations in the protections afforded the people and the environment.
There was insufficient public participation in preparing impact assessments and limited checks on actual impacts. There was also inadequate cooperation between government agencies supervising mining and mechanisms to protect the rights of affected people.
The commission referred to the impact of lead mining in Kanchanaburi province, zinc mining in Tak and coal mining in Lampang.
The government decided on Tuesday not to issue or renew gold mining and exploration licences nationwide, and to close down the mines by the end of this year, amid concerns over pollution and recurring health problems in nearby communities.
The decision responded to a call from activists and scholars last month. It affects the gold mining operations of Akara Resources Plc, the Thai subsidiary of Australian company Kingsgate Consolidated, in Phetchabun, Phichit and Phitsanulok provinces.