Hazardous Red Dust Seized at Rayong Steel Factory
Ministry Investigates Xin Ke Yuan Steel’s Operations
The Industry Ministry has confiscated 43,000 tonnes of hazardous red dust worth 1.7 billion baht from Xin Ke Yuan Steel’s facility in Rayong’s Ban Khai district. The factory was previously shut down in December 2024 for producing substandard steel, and is now under scrutiny for its potential link to the collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok following last week’s earthquake.
Red Dust Linked to Environmental and Safety Violations
Heavy Metal Contamination Raises Concerns
Red dust, a toxic byproduct of steel smelting contaminated with heavy metals, was discovered during an inspection. The company had claimed possession of only 2,245 tonnes of red dust between 2016 and 2022, but investigators found significantly more. A company director attributed the discrepancy to frequent changes in data recording staff.
Removal of Hazardous Waste Suspended
Officials Demand Clarification on Waste Origins
Authorities have halted the removal of red dust from the factory premises and collected samples for examination. The company must provide clear documentation about the waste’s origin by April 10. Officials are also preparing to revoke Xin Ke Yuan Steel’s permit for waste disposal if compliance issues persist.
Legal Action Looms Over Data Discrepancies
Ministry Warns Against Evasion Tactics
Thitipas Chotedechachainan, Chief of the Industry Minister’s working team, stated that data discrepancies due to staff changes are a common excuse used by non-compliant companies. She emphasized that failure to clarify the origin of the hazardous waste will result in legal action, potentially classifying the case as a “special investigation” with involvement from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).
Implications for Public Safety and Industry Standards
Substandard Steel and Hazardous Practices Under Scrutiny
Xin Ke Yuan Steel has faced multiple allegations, including supplying substandard steel linked to structural failures. Investigations into its practices highlight broader concerns about safety standards and environmental compliance within Thailand’s steel industry.
