PM visits Sakon Nakhon to address water quality, support tourism projects
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Sakon Nakhon province today to review water management efforts and receive progress updates from Sakon Nakhon Governor Chusak Ruaying at Don Koen Public Park in Mueang district.
The governor reported concerns about the deteriorating water quality and ecosystem of Nong Han Lake, which has become a major discharge point for untreated household wastewater. Rapid weed growth and sedimentation have further degraded the lake.
Although several agencies are responsible for the area, overlapping jurisdictions between the Treasury Department and the Department of Fisheries have slowed restoration efforts.
Dredging operations require special permits due to the presence of protected fish species and boundary disputes around the lake.
During the visit, provincial officials proposed two major development projects:
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A 279 million baht Buddhist park centred around Phra Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta to create a new landmark and attract religious tourism.
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A 795 million baht walkway, running track, and bicycle path around Nong Han Lake. Although a 21-kilometre road has been completed, around 50 kilometres remain unfinished.
The National Water Resources Office (ONWR) also flagged problems with budget allocations for water drainage and treatment expansion projects. The PM urged officials to investigate delays and ensure that locals are kept informed about the plans.
Kasetsart University’s Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon campus presented a proposal for a 50 million baht Wellness Centre aimed at providing long-term accommodation for elderly visitors and tourists in the Northeast region.
The Bangkok-born PM asked for more detailed studies on tourist demand, emphasising the need for better international promotion. She added that clearer market demand could help drive investment. The proposals will be presented at the Cabinet meeting scheduled for tomorrow, April 29.
Nong Han Lake currently holds approximately 136 million cubic metres of water, about 51.3% of its total storage capacity of 266 million cubic metres. Water usage in the area includes 20 million cubic metres for domestic use and 100 million cubic metres for agriculture, supporting irrigation across 50,000 rai of farmland, reported The Standard.
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