Pollution Control Department Warns Public About Dangerous Containers from Sunken Cargo Ship near Phuket

On February 11, 2024, Surin Worakitthamnong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, signed an official announcement regarding safety recommendations after the SEALLOYD ARC, a Panamanian cargo ship, sank on February 7, 2024 at 3:30 PM near Koh Kaew Noi in Phuket. The vessel, measuring 4,339 gross tons and 113 meters long, was carrying 297 containers that have now scattered in the surrounding marine area. The department issued five critical safety guidelines for the public: 1. Maintain at least 50 meters distance from suspicious containers 2. Do not open any containers, especially those with hazard markings 3. Avoid touching any leaked liquids or chemical substances 4. Prohibit smoking or creating fire near containers due to potential flammable materials 5. If containers are discovered, photograph them and contact emergency hotlines (1650, 1196, or 1465)