Moves to enlarge Bang Pakong River upset locals

Moves to enlarge Bang Pakong River upset locals

Picture shows an aerial view of the Bang Pakong River in Chachoengsao, one of the three provinces where the EEC is located. (Photo by Thanarak Khunton)
Picture shows an aerial view of the Bang Pakong River in Chachoengsao, one of the three provinces where the EEC is located. (Photo by Thanarak Khunton)

The Marine Department is planning to enlarge the ecologically-rich Bang Pakong River to better facilitate cargo barges traveling in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) zone.

The department is funding a 6.9 million baht study which focuses on dredging a section of the 231-kilometre river in Chachoengsao's Bang Pakong district.

The study started on March 29 and will be completed in January next year.

Chachengsao, Rayong and Chon Buri are three provinces making up the EEC zone where 10 industries, including next-generation cars, smart electronics, robotics and logistics, will be developed.

Bang Pakong is a major river in the area, which covers 30,000 rai of plots before flowing into the Gulf of Thailand. Fishermen harvest freshwater fish and shrimps in the river. Major orchards also grow in the area.

If the Marine Department develops facilities, including building jetties, to ensure safer shipping along the river, the Bang Pakong River will emerge as part of a network of goods transport from Prachin Buri and Sa Kaeo in the far East, a source said.

Looking at the river from a drainage aspect, he said flooding along its banks can be relieved if water flows smoothly out to the Gulf. Handling of waste water would also improve.

The department is gathering opinions on dredging and other plans to conserve the river.

However, Sarayoot Sonratsa, a local conservationist and resident of Chachoengsao province, said villagers have not been informed about the study.

"The government has tried dredging the Bang Pakong River but the plan has faced local resistance. When we are eventually informed about the details, we will ask the department to abandon the plan.

"The ecology of this river is too diverse and sensitive for cargo purposes," said Mr Sarayoot, who said he was shocked to learn about the study.

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