New Lao River Water Station to Secure Clean Tap Water for Chiang Rai Residents

Last updated: July 18, 2026 7:42 am

1 hour ago

CHIANG RAI — The Thai government is launching a major project to protect the long-term water safety of Chiang Rai residents. A brand-new water production station will be built to draw fresh water from the Lao River instead of the Kok River.

Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri announced the plan during an official site visit to the Mae Lao Weir on July 17, 2026. The move aims to address ongoing worries about heavy metal pollution in the Kok River and ensure stable tap water supplies.

Key Takeaways

New Water Source: Chiang Rai will shift its main raw water source from the Kok River to the Lao River to avoid long-term pollution risks.
Project Timeline: Construction of the new Mae Lao water production station will begin in 2027 and is expected to finish by 2029.
Areas Covered: The new facility will secure clean tap water for residents in Mueang Chiang Rai, Wiang Chai, and Mae Lao districts.

The Kok River has long served as the primary source of raw water for local communities. However, recent environmental worries regarding heavy metal contamination forced officials to look for safer alternatives. Although current tap water meets safety standards, the government wants a permanent solution to build public trust.

The National Water Resources Committee recently approved the strategic relocation project to the cleaner Lao River. The Provincial Waterworks Authority will oversee the construction of the new Mae Lao station starting next year. This modern facility will handle the growing demand for clean water as Chiang Rai urban areas expand.

New Lao River Water Station to Secure Clean Tap Water for Chiang Rai Residents

Boosting Infrastructure and Monitoring

Multiple government agencies are joining forces to ensure the success of this major infrastructure upgrade. The Royal Irrigation Department is currently working to improve water management efficiency around the Mae Lao Weir. This step guarantees that there will be enough water for both local farming and everyday home usage.

Meanwhile, environmental safety remains a top priority during this transition phase. The Pollution Control Department has been ordered to monitor the water quality of the Lao River closely and continuously. According to the Office of the National Water Resources, these strict checks will ensure the new supply stays perfectly safe.

Local authorities are also focusing heavily on clear communication with the public. Chiang Rai officials will launch public awareness campaigns to keep residents updated on water safety and project updates. The government believes that transparent data is essential to keep the community informed and confident.

This cooperative effort marks a turning point for resource management in northern Thailand. By addressing pollution risks early, the state is building a highly sustainable future for thousands of families. Officials emphasize that clean water is a basic right that must be protected for generations to come.