Mae Fah Luang University led by the MFU Wellness Center and the School of Medicine, organised an academic forum titled “Awareness, Collaboration, Action: Health Hazards from Contaminated Rivers” on 11 April 2025 at Kham Mok Luang Room, M- Square Building, and was live-streamed via Facebook to ensure broad public access.
The forum was attended by representatives from local agencies, lecturers, staff members, students, and interested members of the public, aiming to respond to the environmental and health threats posed by toxic and pollutant contamination in the Kok River.
Prof. Dr. Sujitra Wongkasemjit, Vice President of MFU presided over the opening ceremony and remarked that the Kok River has long been a vital lifeline for the people of Chiang Rai. Today, it faces critical challenges from the contamination of toxic substances and pollutants, directly impacting public health and ecosystems. A thorough understanding of these issues, grounded in academic data and supported by collaborative efforts from all sectors, is essential to achieving sustainable solutions.
On this occasion, MFU announced its declaration of intent titled “Operational Guidelines to Address Health Hazards from Contaminated Rivers,” signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, President of MFU. The declaration outlines six strategic approaches:
1. Partnering with Chiang Rai Province and regional agencies
2. Disseminating accurate information and knowledge
3. Recommending self-care and community protection practices
4. Promoting environmental research
5. Strengthening collaboration with regional higher education institutions
6. Providing academic and policy recommendations to relevant authorities
The declaration affirms Mae Fah Luang University’s commitment to serving as a pillar of support for the public during times of heightened environmental health concern, through academic knowledge, expertise, and multi-sector collaboration, working together to build a safe, wll-being, and sustainable society.
The forum, moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rawiwan Charoensup, Acting Director of the MFU Wellness Center, featured distinguished speakers from various fields, including:
• Dr. Pattaraporn Mekavuthikul, Lecturer from the Division of Toxicology, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Krailak Fakkaew, Lecturer from the Environmental Health Programme, School of Health Science, Mae Fah Luang University
• Asst. Prof. Napamon Pumsopa, Lecturer from the Community Nursing Department, School of Nursing, Mae Fah Luang University
During the forum, speakers addressed growing concerns over contamination in the Kok River, where elevated levels of heavy metals—particularly arsenic and lead—have been detected, especially in Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai. Water quality has continued to deteriorate over recent years due to agricultural runoff, chemical use, industrial discharge, and mining activities.
Health impacts from such contamination were discussed, with short-term symptoms including nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure may increase risks of cancer, neurological disorders, kidney and liver diseases, and anemia - especially among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those who rely directly on river water for daily activities.
Speakers advised the public to avoid using or consuming water directly from the Kok River, to refrain from eating fish and vegetables sourced from the river, and to seek medical consultation if any unusual symptoms occur after contact or consumption.
It was clarified that tap water produced from the Kok River remains safe for use, as it undergoes thorough filtration and meets safety standards. Groundwater and well water sourced far from the Kok River are also considered usable, especially when treated with carbon-filter water purifiers or DIY filtration systems equipped with activated carbon layers.
In terms of policy recommendations, experts proposed the establishment of a “Special Surveillance Zone around the Kok River,” the development of long-term action plans, and stricter regulation of high-risk activities in upstream areas. Additionally, the crucial roles of community nurses and village health volunteers were emphasized in monitoring the health of at-risk populations and offering guidance on safe water use.
