Recycling Plant in Chachoengsao Ordered Closed Despite Alleged Violations Causing Livestock Deaths

Key summary

On October 25, 2026, local authorities and monks reported that the Zhengqing Metal recycling plant in Khao Hin Son subdistrict, Phanom Sarakham district, Chachoengsao province, was operating in violation of a closure order issued by Industry Minister Warawut Silapa-archa on October 24, 2026. The plant is located approximately 500 meters from Bunyarat Temple, where cows purchased for sanctuary reportedly died after suspected exposure to contaminated water near the facility. While the main factory gate was locked, workers were observed operating machinery at night, and nearby water sources were described as black and emitting a strong odor. Subdistrict Mayor Phisunpong Sethawong visited the site with residents, noting that local health officials had not been informed of the closure order despite ongoing truck traffic and noise complaints. The temple's abbot requested better public notification methods for future closure announcements.