On March 18, 2024, tragedy struck when a landslide accident occurred, leading to the closure of an earthen pond and the burial of Mr. Rung Uthai, a 48-year-old gold panning professional, in Ban Wang Nam Khiao, Ron Thong Subdistrict, Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Officials from various sectors swiftly mobilized to provide assistance, deploying long-arm backhoes to expedite the rescue efforts amidst the race against time. However, concerns arose regarding the safety of the surrounding area, prompting officials to urge villagers to vacate the premises to prevent further accidents.
Mr. Rung Uthai, known for his expertise in gold panning, utilized traditional methods to extract gold ore from earthen ponds. Tragically, while engaged in this practice with the assistance of two friends, a sudden collapse of soil resulted in his burial. Despite the frantic efforts of his companions, Mr. Rung Uthai’s body was recovered at a depth of approximately 10-11 meters, marking a devastating end to the rescue operation.
On March 19, 2024, Mr. Kittipong Sukphakkul, Deputy Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, addressed reporters, expressing profound sadness over the incident, which is regarded as the first major accident of its kind in decades. Recognizing the significance of gold panning as a way of life for local villagers, measures are being taken to prevent future tragedies. District Chief Mr. Suthin Prasertsak, in collaboration with the Ron Thong Subdistrict Administrative Organization, initiated surveys and registrations to assess the safety and regulation of gold panning activities in the area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the accident occurred on private land spanning 21 rai, where Mr. Rung Uthai had been digging for three days. The terrain’s instability, compounded by the drilling activity, likely contributed to the soil slide and subsequent collapse. Fortunately, Mr. Rung Uthai’s companions managed to escape unharmed, averting a more extensive tragedy.
Despite the absence of active gold mining in Bang Saphan District, gold panning remains a vital source of livelihood for many villagers. While individuals are not required to seek permission for such activities on private land, regulatory oversight by the Subdistrict Administrative Organization is anticipated to enhance safety measures and prevent future accidents.
