CityNews – The ‘Chiang Mai People Don’t Want Mines’ campaign handed an official letter to the Prime Minister’s office in support of the government’s announcement that they will no longer be issuing permits for gold mining due to health an environmental impacts.
The letter shows support from Chiang Mai’s residents on the government’s decision which will see Akara Resources Plc, a subsidiary of Australian-based Kingsgate, which has been operating in Pichit province since 2001. During that time Akara has exporte4d 56.6 tonnes of gold valued at 54.8 billion baht as well as 245 tonnes of silver valued at 4.6 billion baht. Due to the company’s BOI status, the government has only benefited 6.6% from the total value, at 3.9 billion baht, the letter claims.
The mines also cover an area of over 950,000 rai in three province4s which causes great impact on the environment. Many chemicals have been found in the area and there is fear for local’s health.
This week, the Junta used their powers to call an end to all gold mining in Thailand by the end of 2016.