DMCR Probes Bang Saen Fish Deaths, Water Quality Normal
DMCR confirms Bang Saen fish deaths caused by broken fishing net, not pollution; water quality normal, cleanup complete, legal action underway against boat operator.
On November 3, 2026, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), through its Marine and Coastal Resources Office 2 (MCRO 2), coordinated with network agencies to urgently inspect the situation after receiving reports of dead fish washing up on Bang Saen Beach the previous day (Nov 2). This aimed to reassure the public and tourists regarding safety, hygiene, and marine ecosystem preservation.
The Marine Resources Conservation Division of MCRO 2 collaborated with the Chonburi Provincial Fisheries Office, Saen Suk Municipal Authority, and the Marine Science Institute of Burapha University to verify the facts. Preliminary inspection found only one species of fish — the Indian anchovy (Stolephorus indicus) — all of similar size. The initial hypothesis is that fishing gear (a purse seine net) from a fishing boat in the area broke or malfunctioned, causing the school of fish to escape and be washed ashore by currents.
To prevent recurrence and protect marine resources, the Mueang Chonburi Fisheries Office filed a police report at Saen Suk Police Station to investigate and pursue legal action against the offender. Regarding area management, Saen Suk Municipality has collected and buried all fish carcasses according to sanitary standards to restore Bang Saen Beach to a clean, beautiful, and odor-free condition.
Regarding the earlier plankton bloom warning issued on October 27, 2026, the Eastern Gulf of Thailand Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center, together with the Chulabhorn Aquatic Animal Feed Research and Development Center, have continuously monitored seawater quality. The latest results confirm overall seawater quality is within normal standards, with no plankton bloom or aquatic animal deaths from natural causes detected. Tourists and the public can engage in marine activities as normal.
The DMCR will continue 24-hour monitoring of the marine situation to protect ecosystems, beaches, and public safety. If the public or tourists observe any abnormalities on the beach or events affecting marine resources, they can report to Marine and Coastal Resources Office 2 or the Marine Protection Hotline at 1362, available 24 hours.
