Residents Complain of Filthy, Foul-Smelling Tap Water Causing Severe Itching for Over 2 Months
Residents in Ban Rai District, Uthai Thani Province, have endured contaminated tap water for over two months, causing severe itching and skin diseases affecting roughly 350 people served by the communal system. Authorities have deployed eme
On May 4, 2025, a reporter traveled to Moo 4, Ban Wang Hin, Wang Hin Subdistrict, Ban Rai District, Uthai Thani Province, following complaints posted on Facebook by residents about contaminated water from the communal water supply. The water is cloudy, foul-smelling, and causes itching that has persisted for over two months, with no action taken by the water committee.
A local shop owner opened her home to residents needing to bathe. When the reporter visited, residents confirmed the problem was genuine. A resident named Ms. Sukanya revealed severe itching, particularly on the lower body, and a rusty, foul smell. The water system serves approximately 100 households and 350 people.
An inspection of a water filter revealed thick rust deposits and sludge buildup, with cloudy, foul-smelling water flowing through. In one resident's home, Ms. Buahloy showed a tank filled with dark water. Her husband developed skin disease from bathing in the communal water, and her young grandchild now has to buy water for bathing. Other family members have fled to Bangkok, unable to tolerate the water.
Ms. Sukanya reported itching all over her body, with a rusty smell and rashes, making it impossible to use the water for brushing teeth, washing, cooking, or any household purposes. Many residents, especially children, have developed skin diseases. They are appealing to the district officer and Uthai Thani governor for assistance.
Subdistrict Administrator Ms. Supathanyan confirmed that residents had previously complained to the subdistrict office, and the chief had ordered water trucks to deliver water to residents as an emergency measure.
The communal water system is managed by a committee led by village headman Chatri. The subdistrict has stepped in to help after receiving complaints from residents. A shop owner sympathized with residents suffering in the intense heat and opened her bathroom facilities from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
