Illegal Mining Sites Surge in Laos, Causing Transboundary Pollution in Mekong River Tributaries

Satellite imagery analysis reveals 517 suspected mining sites along Laos’ rivers, predominantly located in major Mekong tributary areas. Among these, 188 sites in Attapeu Province are largely unregistered in official records. These mines predominantly use chemical extraction methods, with some employing high-risk heap leaching operations. Toxic substances flow downstream into the Mekong River’s “3S” river system. The pollution has caused discoloration of river water and a sharp decline in fish populations in downstream countries like Thailand and Cambodia. Residents in northeastern Cambodia have also reported severe skin rashes and other symptoms. Additionally, 1,868 mining sites have been identified within Myanmar, whose discharge of high-concentration arsenic pollutants has also raised concerns among neighboring countries.