Suchart Orders Pollution Control Department to Support Sunken Ship Rescue in Phuket, Monitor Environmental Impact

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin expressed concern over the cargo ship sinking near Phuket, ordering the Pollution Control Department (PCD) to closely monitor and inspect coastal seawater quality. The department will support the SEALLOYD ARC cargo ship rescue center and provide academic consultation to protect workers, citizens, and tourists. PCD Director Surintra Worakitthammong revealed they are using the OILMAP program to predict oil slick movement and assess potential environmental impact. The team is studying the 14 containers' hazardous contents, providing guidelines for diving exploration teams on safety precautions, equipment preparation, and potential chemical leakage detection. PCD has also advised on oil dispersant use and recommended that the public continue normal recreational activities while remaining cautious. If container debris is found, people are urged to photograph the container, any hazard symbols, and its location, then contact emergency hotlines 1650 (PCD), 1196 (Marine Department), or 1465 (Maritime and Coastal Resources Protection Center).