Bangkok Cruise Crew’s Illegal Dumping Sparks River Crackdown
Bangkok—A shocking video depicting crew members discarding waste into Bangkok’s iconic Chao Phraya River has prompted swift action from authorities, potentially leading to the suspension of a popular dinner cruise operator’s license. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, involved staff from the Royal Galaxy Cruise, operated by Happy International Trade Co., Ltd. Footage circulating online clearly shows blatant disregard for environmental regulations near the Krungthep Bridge, sparking public outrage and demands for accountability.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, firmly condemning the transgression, instructed Kritpetch Chaichuay, Director-General of the Marine Department, to launch a thorough investigation. Initial actions include suspending the captain’s license and the vessel’s operating permit. These measures represent a potentially crippling blow to the company’s operations. The Marine Department, committed to protecting this vital waterway, plans a meeting with relevant agencies to discuss further penalties and collaborate with the Thai Boats Association. The goal is to promote responsible environmental practices among all Chao Phraya River passenger boat operators, setting a precedent for future compliance.
The repercussions extend beyond operational suspension. Authorities are gathering evidence to file formal complaints with the Pak Khlong San police station, initiating a criminal investigation. According to Mr. Kritpetch, the crew’s actions violate Section 119 of the Navigation in Thai Waters Act BE 2546, a serious offense punishable by up to six months imprisonment and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. This legal action underscores the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
Adding to the cruise operator’s problems, Pornphrom Vikitsreth, an advisor to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, discovered during a site visit that the Royal Galaxy Cruise lacked the mandatory food vending license required for dinner cruises. This separate violation resulted in a warning from the Rat Burana district office, giving the operator seven days to obtain the necessary permit. This further complicates the company’s situation, highlighting potential administrative oversights.
In a statement following the incident, Royal Galaxy Cruise attributed the act to untrained temporary employees who had not received proper waste disposal training. The company immediately terminated these employees' contracts—a move that some may see as an attempt to deflect responsibility from inadequate training and oversight. While expressing “deep apologies” and pledging to rectify the situation, the company’s statement raises questions about its internal protocols and management practices. Whether this explanation will satisfy authorities and the public remains to be seen.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenge of maintaining the ecological health of the Chao Phraya River, a vital resource for Bangkok. The swift response from authorities, along with the potential legal and administrative consequences for the operator, highlights the growing importance of environmental responsibility in the tourism sector. This case will likely serve as a crucial test of environmental regulation enforcement, potentially shaping future practices for all operators navigating Thailand’s waterways.
