Suchart vows to close toxic waste plants in Prachin Buri
Minister Weerasak recounts how international rescuers were brought in
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Minister Weerasak recounts how international rescuers were brought in
1 Oct 13:16Key points summarised by AI
Minister Weerasak Kowsurat initiated contact with British cave diver Robert Harper via Facetime, securing his immediate commitment to aid the Tham Luang rescue after a local resident's suggestion.
Weerasak swiftly coordinated across Thai government ministries, contacting the Deputy Foreign Minister to formalize an invitation to the British government for three expert divers and the Transport Minister to arrange urgent air travel.
The British divers arrived at Tham Luang within 24 hours of the initial call, demonstrating rapid international mobilization, which was soon followed by a US rescue team from Okinawa, also requested by Weerasak for specialized equipment.
Suchart vows to close toxic waste plants in Prachin Buri
Today 13:42Key points summarised by AI
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin launched a full-scale crackdown on toxic waste processing plants in Prachin Buri, promising severe legal action and asset seizures.
The urgent action stems from a recent incident in Sri Maha Phot district where a factory's embankment collapsed, releasing hazardous chemical runoff and endangering local residents.
The government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is considering permanent permit revocations for repeat offenders and rejecting any personal appeals from factory owners seeking leniency.
The Ministry is collaborating with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to investigate land encroachment and confiscate assets from offending networks.