Sutchat expressed concern about the dark water in Rangsit Canal and ordered the Pollution Control Department to urgently monitor and resolve the issue. Limited oxygen was detected, likely due to floodwater carrying organic matter and detergents into the canal. The public was advised to avoid contact with the water.
On 13 Oct 2026 GMT+7, Surin Worrakitthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, disclosed that Pollution Control Office 6 (Nonthaburi) conducted water quality measurements at three sites: Chulalongkorn Watergate, Sukkasem Community Watergate, and Khlong Prem Tai pumping station. They found the water to be dark with white foam and a foul odor at all points, with no dead aquatic life observed. Dissolved oxygen (DO) levels measured 1.18, 1.80, and 1.50 mg/L respectively, pH ranged from 6.61 to 6.73, and salinity was 0.2 ppt. Preliminary assessments classified the water quality as surface water type 5, with low DO indicating limited oxygen and potential harm to aquatic life.
The initial cause is believed to be recent floodwater runoff carrying organic substances and detergents from nearby communities into the canal, causing water pollution. When large pumps discharge water from the canal into the Chao Phraya River, the impact and mixing with air may produce white foam accumulation near the watergates. However, further investigation is required to confirm the pollution sources and causes.
Authorities initially request the public to avoid direct contact with the water due to possible pathogens; if necessary, gloves or boots should be worn. People are urged not to dump waste or sewage into the canal to prevent further water quality degradation. The Pollution Control Department will coordinate with relevant agencies to monitor the situation and expedite appropriate solutions. On 14 Oct 2025 GMT+7, Pollution Control Office 6 will conduct follow-up water quality monitoring at three sites: upstream of Chulalongkorn Watergate, Sukkasem Community Watergate (foam area), and Khlong Prem Tai pumping station (downstream). Samples will be sent to laboratories for heavy metal and VOC analysis using Headspace methods. The office will also provide bio-fermented water to mitigate malodorous pollution in communities and supply drinking water.
Residents affected by water pollution due to flooding can report incidents or seek advice by contacting Pollution Control Office 6 in Nonthaburi at 029688065 or the Pollution Control Department hotline 1650.