Suchart orders strict probe into 200 tons of aluminium dross

On October 16, 2026, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin ordered the Pollution Control Department (PCD) to urgently investigate complaints regarding the storage of approximately 200 tons of industrial aluminium dross. The hazardous waste was found stored both inside and outside an abandoned factory warehouse located in Tambon Na Di, Mueang Samut Sakhon district, Samut Sakhon province, prompting coordinated efforts to mitigate environmental and health risks.

Dr. Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, revealed that the Environmental and Pollution Control Office Region 5 (EPCO 5), alongside the Samut Sakhon Natural Resources and Environment Office, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), the Samut Sakhon Provincial Industry Office, and local agencies, immediately inspected air and water quality surrounding the site.

Air quality assessments measuring ammonia gas (NH₃) across eight points inside the warehouse recorded values between 0 and 5 ppm, while seven other points within a 100 to 500-meter radius detected no ammonia gas. Meanwhile, field water quality tests conducted at two locations showed pH levels ranging between 6 and 7.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

EPCO 5 has advised relevant agencies to coordinate with the site owner to relocate the waste piled outside back into the secure warehouse. Furthermore, the Na Di Subdistrict Municipality has been urged to enforce building control regulations and repair damaged roofs to prevent rainwater from leaking onto the waste, as moisture contact triggers the release of ammonia gas from aluminium dross.