On June 24, the seawater near Najomtien Village No. 8 changed to an alarming dark color and began to smell bad, raising the locals’ concerns.
In particular, the waterways next to Soi Najomtien 52 were impacted. The once-pure ocean had changed to a muddy dark color and an unpleasant smell. An alarming quantity of dead fish washed up on the beach as foam-covered waves crashed against the shore. Although the reason for this incident is still unknown, its effects on the neighborhood are starting to show in reports of eye and nasal irritation among locals. Initial inquiries have concentrated on the neighboring canal, which seems to flow normally, indicating that the problem is related to the sea itself.
Miss Tuenjit Sapna, the head of Najomtien village, responded by quickly requesting support from the appropriate authorities to resolve the worries of the locals close to the impacted shoreline. Hotel owners in the affected area took efforts to protect their patrons and visitors after becoming aware of the potential risks brought on by the contaminated seawater. In the meantime, while the situation is being investigated further by the appropriate authorities, notices were published recommending visitors to forgo swimming in the sea.
Small-scale fishers were also urged by Tuenjit to temporarily cease their operations until a full assessment of the situation had been made. According to her, since these situations happen more frequently, it is getting harder for the locals to maintain their way of life.
