Chiang Mai – The mayor of Chiang Mai Municipality led a team to inspect the city moat's water quality, confirming the water is good quality, clean, and safe according to standards, allowing residents and tourists to confidently enjoy water splashing during Songkran.
On 10 April 2026, Atthanee Buranupakorn, mayor of Chiang Mai Municipality, along with officials from the sanitation and public health departments, inspected the water quality of the Chiang Mai moat at Maneenopparat Road, opposite Wat Lok Moli, Sri Phum subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Mai province. This was to prepare for the upcoming Songkran festival from 13 to 15 April 2026, accommodating tourists.
During this inspection, officials conducted detailed water quality measurements, including pH levels and tests for contaminants or toxins. Samples were randomly collected from various points around the moat to comprehensively assess water quality. The results showed the moat's water is within good standards, with no pollution exceeding limits, no ecological harm, and no signs of sewage issues, making it suitable for use and safe for water play during this year's Songkran festival.
Mayor Atthanee Buranupakorn stated that today's water quality inspection aims to reassure tourists visiting during Songkran. The municipality has worked to improve water quality since late March through early April. Today's results confirm the moat water is of good quality and suitable for Songkran water activities. Additionally, the municipality uses bacteria and water fountains to increase oxygen in the water. While lime was traditionally used yearly to disinfect the moat before adding water, this year chlorine was used instead to enhance water quality further, ensuring greater safety for tourists during Songkran.
The water volume in Chiang Mai's moat is certainly sufficient, as the irrigation department supplies 17,000 cubic meters daily, ensuring ample water replenishment for tourists to fully enjoy water activities.
Regarding safety measures during Songkran, Chiang Mai Municipality has placed floating buoys throughout all moats to provide support if tourists accidentally fall into the water. Additionally, municipal officers, prevention staff, firefighters, and rescue personnel are stationed at every point around the moat, ready to assist tourists immediately should any accidents occur.