Bangkok: The Ministry of Agriculture, headed by Deputy Minister Watcharaphol Khaokham, has initiated a comprehensive provincial-level task force aimed at controlling the black-chinned tilapia issue across 21 provinces. A special committee has been formed to oversee the implementation of seven intensive measures designed to address the problem. The Ministry has requested additional funding from the central government, having discussed the matter with the Prime Minister, and is now awaiting approval. Despite the pending court case, the Ministry emphasized that efforts to resolve the issue will proceed without delay, adhering to the Central Administrative Court's 180-day action timeframe.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Fisheries has categorized areas with black-chinned tilapia into 18 provinces based on their abundance. Chonburi has the highest prevalence, while nine provinces, including Chanthaburi and Rayong, have moderate prevalence. Eight provinces, such as Trat and Chachoengsao, have low prevalence. Prachinburi and Phatthalung, once affected, are now free from the species. Trat and Pattani are under surveillance, with low levels or no presence of the fish. The recent confirmation of black-chinned tilapia in Lam Pao Dam, Kalasin Province, brings the total affected areas to 21 provinces.
Mr. Watcharaphol outlined the Ministry's previous efforts, including capturing and eradicating the fish, releasing predatory fish, monitoring high-risk areas, and engaging community networks. Future measures will intensify these efforts, utilizing new tools permitted by updated fisheries laws and methods evaluated by the Department of Fisheries. The Ministry aims to involve local communities actively in controlling and reducing the black-chinned tilapia population.
The Central Administrative Court has mandated the Department of Fisheries, with the Ministry's support, to address the black-chinned tilapia issue within 180 days of the ruling. While the Department of Fisheries considers appealing the ruling, Mr. Watcharaphol emphasized the government's commitment to resolving the issue promptly, regardless of legal proceedings. The Ministry is also working with the Ministry of Interior to assist affected citizens and has instructed stricter control measures on importing and regulating alien aquatic species.
In response to recent findings of black-chinned tilapia in Lam Pao Dam, Mr. Watcharaphol ordered an investigation by the Kalasin Provincial Fisheries Office. Although initial surveys found no presence of the fish, subsequent tests on samples provided by locals confirmed their presence, prompting intensified monitoring efforts.
Mr. Boonthong Paocharoen, Kalasin Provincial Fisheries Officer, reported two more sightings of black-chinned tilapia in Lam Pao Dam. He noted that their presence could be due to unauthorized release, as they typically do not thrive in the dam's environment. Local authorities, under the Governor of Kalasin's directive, are enhancing surveys and control measures. Mr. Boonthong reassured the public, deeming the situation manageable and urging vigilance in reporting suspicious fish.