Oil spills threaten beaches of Koh Phangan island

Oil spills, believed to be from foreign fishing boats, have tainted the beaches and mangrove shores of Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province forcing local authorities to investigate and seek assistance from relevant government agencies to help clean it.

The oil spills tainted a 500 metre long section of the beach and mangrove shore at Hin Kong Moo 6 in Ban Hin Kong of Tambon Koh Phangan.

According to Phet Phangan mayor Pittaya Inkong, he believed the oil spills were released from foreign fishing boats which came to fish in the areas.

The released oil spills were later blown to shores by winds, he said.

He said the oil tainted beach and mangrove shore are recreational areas where tourists always like to visit and watching sunset.

Moreover it is also the nursery ground for marine life, particularly “Hoi Klom” or round shells which is a delicious and favourite dish for locals and tourists.

He said a meeting would be called to investigate and to seek help from other relevant state agencies to resolve the problems which is now threatening the environment.

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