Ire over mines, power plant

Ire over mines, power plant

An expansion of limestone mining and a new coal-fired power plant in Saraburi is facing local protests over environmental and health concerns.

Villagers around the TPI Polene Power Plc projects will be negatively affected by the projects, said Ruangkiat Suwannopat, leader of an environmental protection association.

"The limestone mines and coal-fired power plant can cause pollution and pesticide residue across nearby areas," he said, adding that this can create respiratory problems and increase the risk of cancer for locals. "It can also contaminate dairy farming, crop farming and local tourism. The government should prevent such impacts before they become long-term health issues."

The mines also harm the natural environment and damage the area's resources, Mr Ruangkiat said, adding that underground water has become scarce because of the mine's water use.

Mr Ruangkiat said villagers had opposed cabinet approval to renew the TPI Polene Power Plc's licence back in 2019. In mid-2021, a cabinet resolution was halted as the area was classified under the Watershed Classification class 1A and 1B, which is the highest degree of watershed ecosystem control issued by the Royal Forest Department.

However, the villagers learned that the firm had expanded its mines into tambon Tab Kwang of Saraburi's Kaeng Khoi district. There is also concern about the impact on the Bodhisattva cave.

Do you like the content of this article?
COMMENT