BANGKOK, Feb 28 (TNA) – Thai authorities have launched an investigation into a river cruise restaurant after video surfaced showing waste being dumped into the Chao Phraya River.
Deputy Minister of Transport, Manaporn Charoensri, ordered the Marine Department to pursue the maximum legal penalties against the Royal Galaxy Cruise, and to suspend the vessel’s operating license and the captain’s license.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, prompted swift action from authorities. Bangkok’s sustainability advisor, Pornprom Vikitsreth, joined officials from the Marine Department and the Water Police to inspect the site where the dumping took place.
Marine Department Director-General, Kritpetch Chaichuay, confirmed that a police complaint had been filed against the captain and those responsible at Pak Khlong San Police Station. Violators face up to six months in prison and a fine of up to 10,000 baht under the Navigation in Thai Waters Act.
The Royal Galaxy Cruise issued an apology, attributing the incident to a temporary employee who had not received proper training on waste disposal procedures. The company pledged to terminate the employee’s contract and implement stricter environmental standards.
In addition to the Marine Department’s investigation, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is also looking into the cruise’s compliance with public health regulations, as the vessel operates a restaurant without the necessary permits. – 819 (TNA)
