On December 31, Ms. Preeyaporn Suwannakes, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, announced the results of a nationwide assessment of coastal water quality across 210 locations. The Marine Water Quality Index (MWQI) for 2024 indicates that 49% of coastal waters are in "Good" condition, 43% are "Fair," 6% are "Degraded," and 2% are classified as "Severely Degraded."
Top 10 Coastal Areas with Best Water Quality:
- Samila Beach (Songkhla)
- Nai Harn Beach (Phuket)
- Ton Sai Beach (Krabi)
- Maya Bay (Krabi)
- Loh Samah Bay (Krabi)
- Yung Island (Krabi)
- Chicken Island (Krabi)
- Thai Mueang Beach (Phang Nga)
- Bang Ben Beach (Ranong)
- Ban Thung Rin (Satun)
Top 5 Severely Degraded Areas:
- Chao Phraya River Estuary (Samut Prakan)
- Textile Dyeing Factory, KM 35 (Samut Prakan)
- Khlong 12 December Canal (Samut Prakan)
- Southern Laem Chabang (Chonburi)
- Tha Chin River Estuary (Samut Sakhon)
Key Findings and Trends
Over the past decade (2015–2024), coastal water quality has remained stable, with more than 90% of areas rated "Fair" or better. The Andaman coastline has seen the most significant improvements, while the Inner Gulf of Thailand continues to face challenges due to nutrient pollution and bacterial contamination. High nutrient levels, in particular, may contribute to incidents of red tide and other water quality issues.
Ms. Preeyaporn emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to address areas of concern and maintain Thailand's marine ecosystem health.