The Industry Ministry, which drafted an amendment to the Minerals Act that legalises underground mining, has been asked to delay giving a concession for a potash mine to a Canadian firm, Asia Pacific Resources Ltd. because of concerns over land subsidence and saline pollution.

Earlier, the operator, Asia Pacific Potash Corporation (90% owned by Asia Pacific Resources Ltd), prepared an environmental impact assessment (EIA), which was approved. However, a mining concession was not issued as some conditions had yet to be fulfilled. The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry had written to the mining affairs department asking it to delay the concession.

Despite the firm's plans to minimise environmental threats, villagers are worried that saline dust and water from the mine will harm their farms. The president of the Thailand Environment Institute said a public forum on March 29 would allow company representatives, academics, officials, villagers and environmental groups to debate the issue. Environmental activists and academics would also review the EIA.

Due to its environmental impact on the area, the effects of underground potash mining would affect the properties of the landowners, as well as the livelihood of farmers and the rural communities. Hotline issued UA020909(9) in September 2002 to support the calls of The National Human Rights Commission of Thailand, local communities and independent senators to block the amendment bill that would allow concessions to the mining companies for underground mining.

Source:
Bangkok Post