Minister Orders Immediate Stop To Sediment Dumping In Phuket

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin issued an immediate order on July 5, 2025, directing the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to urgently investigate reports that sediment from a private property flowed into the sea near Koh Sirae in Phuket City District on July 3, 2025. The minister ordered an immediate suspension of all sediment discharge to prevent damage to marine and coastal resources.

Dr. Pinsak Surasvadi, Director of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, instructed Marine and Coastal Resources Office 10 to coordinate with Phuket's Natural Resources and Environment Office, community leaders, and local agencies to conduct an urgent field investigation. Officials identified the property as private land covering approximately 39 rai, 3 ngan, and 83 square wah, and issued a formal notice to the company managing the land, ordering an immediate cessation of activities causing sediment or material to flow into the sea. The company has been required to implement erosion control and soil stabilization measures to prevent long-term damage to marine and coastal resources.

Sediment discharge into the sea damages coastal ecosystems, particularly coral reefs, seagrass beds, and benthic marine life, by reducing light penetration and decreasing photosynthesis in underwater organisms. This can also impact water quality and biodiversity in coastal areas without proper control measures.

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources will closely monitor the situation. If evidence shows the activities have caused damage to marine and coastal resources, officials will take action under the Marine and Coastal Resources Management Promotion Act of 2015 and related laws to protect Thailand's marine and coastal resources and ensure their long-term sustainability.