Lalida revealed that the Anutin government is moving forward with addressing the contamination impact in the Kok River, while simultaneously promoting land use rights and community forests to establish long-term security for the people.
On 7 May 2026, Ms. Lalida Perwivatthana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the government under Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul prioritizes comprehensive solutions to environmental problems, natural resources, and public quality of life. This includes impacts from contamination in the Kok River and issues regarding land use rights for people living in forest areas. The government has accelerated integration among relevant agencies to systematically and continuously address these problems.
The Deputy Spokesperson said that Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, responded to live questions in the House of Representatives, based on queries from Mr. Kriangyot Sudlapa, a party-list MP of the Bhumjaithai Party, regarding land use rights and housing security for people in forest areas. Also, Ms. Monthicha Chaibaan, MP for Chiang Rai province from the Kla Party, raised questions about the impacts of contamination in the Kok River on health, tourism, and public confidence in the area.
The government established a task force to monitor contamination in the Kok River since October 2025 and has continuously coordinated with foreign countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs dispatched teams to neighboring countries to discuss concrete joint solutions under international cooperation aimed at reducing impacts on this important regional river.
Regarding water and sediment quality inspections, the Pollution Control Department has been conducting continuous scientific analyses to provide clarity and accurate understanding for the public. Meanwhile, agencies responsible for fisheries and public health are carefully evaluating aquatic safety and health impacts based on scientific principles.
Simultaneously, the government is seeking alternative water sources for consumption. The Department of Water Resources, in collaboration with the Provincial Waterworks Authority, is establishing backup water supply systems for at-risk areas. Efforts include cleaning ponds, upgrading village water systems, and supporting solutions for affected schools, temples, and communities to ensure sufficient and safe access to clean water. Additionally, the government focuses on economic relief for communities dependent on tourism and water activities affected by declining confidence, aiming to provide targeted and fair assistance to those truly impacted.
Regarding land use rights, the government is accelerating the issuance of land title deeds to over 800,000 people, targeting completion by 2027 to secure housing and livelihoods for residents in forest areas. This is accompanied by promotion of “community forests,” which now cover over 6 million rai and benefit more than 4 million people. The government is also advancing carbon credit systems to generate income for these communities.
At the same time, the government is addressing electricity costs for people in community forest areas by directing that residents pay electricity rates equivalent to those with permanent meters, reducing expenses and ensuring fairness in accessing basic state services. “What the government prioritizes is enabling people to live sustainably with natural resources, enjoy good quality of life, and receive fair care regarding the environment, health, land rights, and economic opportunities. The government will continue to address these issues without abandoning the people in any situation.”