The alarm over the black water flowing across the beach was raised yesterday (Jan 16), with tourists fearing to go into the water and health concerns raised over whether the black water was untreated wastewater, which Karon Mayor Jadet Wicharasorn has already denied.
On learning of the black water, Mayor Jadet and Sanan Rakdam, Director of Karon Municipality’s Engineering Division and Wastewater Treatment Office, ordered an immediate inspection of the wastewater treatment facility at the Nong Harn pond.
The investigation determined that the ‘black water’ phenomenon was not a result of illegal wastewater discharge, as initially feared, Mayor Jadet said.
"It’s not a matter of wastewater, but there is a canal that flows to treat municipal wastewater, and part of it is natural, flowing into the sea. The water channel, or natural canal, was normal for the tides to flow in and out,” Mayor Jadet said.
Officials determined that the appearance of the water was caused by sediment in the canal, Mayor Jadet explained.
“The rise of sea levels led to the movement of sand and sediments, giving the water a dark appearance. The wastewater treatment company confirmed that the water being discharged was clear and of good quality,” he said.
Mr Sanan said that abnormal high tides caused sand to cover the drainage channel, resulting in treated water flowing back into Nong Harn. The subsequent drop in sea levels exposed the sediment, which was then washed into the sea.
To address the issue, a plan was outlined for immediate action. During low tide last night, machines were deployed to remove the black sediment. Additionally, future plans included the construction of sediment traps at key points before the water reaches the sea.
Apologising for any concern caused, Mr Sanan emphasised the municipality’s commitment to swiftly resolving the problem to protect both the environment and the image of tourism in the area.
Urgent mobilization of personnel and machinery was underway to ensure a prompt resolution by the end of the day or tomorrow, assuring the public that there would be no recurrence of the incident, he said.