Toxic runoff from 2,400 mines endangers Mekong; millions at risk
What's the story
A new study by the United States-based Stimson Center has revealed alarming levels of pollution in major rivers across Southeast Asia. The research indicates that toxic runoff from over 2,400 unregulated mines is contaminating rivers such as the Mekong, Salween, and Irrawaddy. The pollutants include hazardous substances like cyanide, mercury, arsenic, and heavy metals.
Pollution mapping
Study maps mining activities, highlights health risks
The Stimson Center study is the first of its kind to map mining activities in mainland Southeast Asia. It focuses on conflict-affected northern Myanmar, where gold and rare earth extraction processes use toxic chemicals such as ammonium sulfate and sodium cyanide. The research identified 366 alluvial mining sites (mostly gold mines), 359 heap leach sites (for gold, nickel, copper, and manganese extraction), and 77 rare earth mines draining into the Mekong basin.
Economic impact
Mekong River's contamination threatens millions
The Mekong River, Asia's third-largest river, supports over 70 million people and is vital for global agricultural and fisheries exports. Brian Eyler, a senior fellow at Stimson Center, noted that "the scale is something that's striking to me." He added that much of the Mekong Basin is "essentially ungoverned" by national laws and sensible regulations, making it vulnerable to high-intensity unregulated activities.
Environmental threat
Rare earth mining in Myanmar raises contamination concerns
The emergence of new China-backed rare earth mines in eastern Myanmar has raised concerns over downstream pollution along the Kok River. Tanapon Phenrat from Thailand Science Research and Innovation found arsenic and heavy rare earths like dysprosium and terbium in Kok River samples. Myanmar is a major producer of heavy rare earths, which are crucial for wind turbines, electric vehicles, and defense systems.
Government action
Thailand's response to mining-induced contamination
In response to the contamination, Thailand has formed task forces to monitor health impacts and secure alternative supplies for communities along affected rivers. Deputy Prime Minister Suchart Chomklin announced these measures as part of efforts to address environmental degradation and human health issues from unregulated mining in Southeast Asia. The Stimson Center report calls for expanded water quality testing along the Mekong basin and stronger regional governance mechanisms.