Pattaya fights a shore thing: War declared on stinky seaweed
In a bid to rescue their once-pristine shorelines, Pattaya City officials have declared war on the stinking seaweed invasion that’s left Krating Rai Beach in turmoil.
Under Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai, a massive clean-up operation was launched yesterday, February 19, as officers from the Cleaning Control Division, Pollution Control Division, and Natural Resources and Environment Department rolled up their sleeves to tackle the seaside scourge.
Armed with five hefty six-wheeler trucks, more than 35 dedicated officers from across three districts joined forces to clear the smelly seaweed blockade, reported Pattaya News.
“Although seaweed is an annual visitor to our shores, it’s normally in much smaller quantities,” said a Pattaya City officer.
The seaweed invasion had waned during the Covid-19 years from 2020 to 2022, but now the beach is groaning under the weight of unprecedented levels, estimated to be in the tens of tonnes.
City officials are pulling out all the stops to clean up the beach over the coming days, making sure it’s ready to welcome back sun-seekers and residents alike.
When seaweed accumulates in large quantities, as it decomposes, it releases unpleasant odours that can drive residents and tourists away.
Moreover, left unchecked, it can smother beaches, disrupt local ecosystems, and even impede marine life. So, while it’s a natural occurrence, too much of it can be a major problem for coastal communities reliant on tourism and clean, inviting beaches.
Meanwhile, Pattaya City police and Chon Buri Immigration were involved in another clean up operation when they swooped on the underbelly of Pattaya in a sweeping anti-drug crackdown.
Revellers and residents alike were left reeling as the government’s ambitious campaign zeroed in on two notorious hotspots, leaving no stone unturned.
The first target, a bustling commercial building on Soi Pattaya Klang 16, saw six people swiftly nabbed after testing positive for drugs.
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