WHA ESIE 5 land leveling suspended following suspected illegal rock blasting

Thailand's Minister of Industry, Varawut Silpa-archa, has ordered the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) to suspend land leveling activities at the WHA Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate 5 (WHA ESIE 5) in Rayong province. The suspension follows reports of loud explosions and vibrations that occurred on August 13, causing significant alarm among residents in four districts.

An investigation involving local authorities and representatives from the industrial estate and Ban Khai Concrete Products Co., Ltd. found evidence suggesting that rock destruction was carried out via blasting methods. The IEAT has prohibited unauthorized personnel from entering the site to preserve evidence and prevent the movement of materials.

The estate developer has been issued a formal request to provide a full explanation within three working days. This report must cover operational processes, environmental impact assessment (EIA) compliance, and all relevant legal permits. If investigations confirm illegal activities, authorities have pledged to pursue strict legal action and establish compensation measures for affected citizens.