Fish caught in arsenic-contaminated Kok River not selling

14 Sept 02:30 Key points summarised by AI

Fish sales from the Kok River have plummeted due to widespread reports of arsenic and heavy metal contamination, despite some fish testing below the safety threshold for consumption.
Authorities in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have advised residents to avoid using Kok River water after lab tests confirmed arsenic levels in sediment exceeded safety standards.
Fishermen continue to report visible abnormalities in fish, raising concerns about the broader impact on fish populations, especially as similar issues are noted in the Mekong River.
The pollution is suspected to stem from untreated wastewater discharged by large-scale mining operations in Myanmar, prompting calls for the Thai government to initiate diplomatic talks and consider halting these operations.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.