Jomtien Sea turns black after wastewater discharge

2026-02-03 - 07:26

CHONBURI — A clip showing wastewater being discharged into the sea at Jomtien Beach in Bang Lamung district has gone viral on social media, prompting concern after seawater in the area turned black. The footage, shared widely on Facebook, shows dark wastewater flowing into the sea along the Jomtien beachfront, raising alarm among residents and tourists. Reporters who visited the site found the affected area was part of an ongoing Jomtien Beach landscape improvement project. Contractors were carrying out drainage works, including the installation of drainage pipes and the flushing of pipes connected to rainwater retention ponds designed to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. The Pattaya Mayor’s Office said a complaint had been filed with Pattaya City Police against the contractor responsible for releasing wastewater into the sea. Authorities have also ordered immediate corrective action. According to the city, the discharge occurred at about 10.00am on 2 February. The Pattaya mayor instructed relevant officials to lodge a formal complaint and pursue legal action without delay. A team of city scientists has also collected water samples from the area for quality testing to ensure public and tourist safety. Officials said further action would be taken in line with the law once the investigation and water quality tests are completed.