Officials from the Pollution Control Department measured toxic gases around a Data Center on Rama 9 Road. Initial findings revealed a true oil-based solvent odor. They are awaiting detailed test results to determine if the levels pose health risks to the public.
At 13:50 on 3 Sep 2026 GMT+7, officials from the Pollution Control Department, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, visited the Data Center to investigate pollution and environmental impacts. The first team inspected areas with oil tanks and related systems, while a second team interviewed residents and checked nearby community water sources.
Outside the Data Center, officials opened a drainage pipe cover. Upon opening, reporters immediately noticed an oil smell. Officers collected water samples and used chemical vapor detectors for initial readings before sending samples to a laboratory for detailed analysis.
After over three hours of inspection, Mr. Jaturong Atsawasawan, an expert environmental scientist, explained that the investigation was prompted by complaints from residents near Rama 9 Hospital about an oil smell. They collected water samples from a suspected holding pond inside the Data Center, intended for external discharge. These samples will be lab-tested by the Pollution Control Department. Officials confirmed they indeed smelled oil near the holding pond.
For external water samples, the Headspace technique was used by shaking water samples and measuring toxic gases causing odors. Initial findings detected hydrogen sulfide and volatile organic compounds related to oil, confirming residents’ complaints. The detected level was about 3 PPM, enough to smell. However, a detailed review is needed to confirm if these levels exceed the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s health safety standards.
Regarding public concerns about flammable gases, oxygen measurements in the water remain at levels that do not pose explosion or fire risks. However, the odor spreading from drainage pipes may cause nuisance due to the unpleasant smell.
During the inspection inside the Data Center, staff cooperated fully. Typical pollution issues at Data Centers include noise, heat, and diesel generator smoke. Future plans may involve integrated inspections with other agencies to address these concerns.
When asked about the clarity of the investigation on whether the oil near community drainage pipes originated from the Data Center, officials preliminarily believe the drainage pipes are connected but await additional information from related agencies about water discharge details.
Regarding whether cooling water used inside the Data Center is discharged into community water sources, Mr. Jaturong said that according to internal staff, cooling water is recycled and not released into community waters. The facility also has its own wastewater treatment system.
Laboratory analysis of water samples will take approximately 2-3 weeks, after which detailed and clear results will be available.