The Chaiyaphum's Phu Laenkha headwaters have been contaminated with agricultural chemicals, prompting natural tap water systems at two villages to be suspended and a special clinic opened to treat locals suffering from allergic skin problems.
The 1,134strong Ban Chilong and 800strong Ban Mai Pha Aing had been affected by the chemicals, which were used by farmers at some 30,000 rai of rubber, tapioca and orange plantations, contaminating the Pha Aiang Fall and Lam Pa Tao waterways. Provincial governor Wanchai Suthiworachai along with related agencies yesterday inspected the area after a test result confirmed the chemical contamination. Suspending the tap water systems until the water was deemed safe to use, Wanchai said he would send officials to improve the water quality and provide regular waterquality testing. He also instructed the Muang district chief to check the area's registered farmers to see if anyone overused chemicals and to punish the wrongdoers by removing them from the registration list.