Khlong Mae Kha: Tourism is in danger of drowning due to water pollution!

Khlong Mae Kha: Tourism is in danger of drowning due to water pollution!

In Chiang Mai, one of the most popular attractions, the Khlong Mae Kha Canal, is once again in the spotlight after a series of setbacks affecting water quality and the visitor experience. The canal, which stretches along Ragang Road in Haiya subdistrict and has become a draw for tourists and locals in the past two years, often presents picturesque views of renovated wooden houses turned into cafes, restaurants and boutique hostels. But the recent problem of polluted water has affected the atmosphere of the once thriving area. According to NationalThailand, social media users have also noticed this and are calling on the authorities to take immediate action.

The Khlong Mae Kha, which has been transformed after many years of neglect and pollution, has seen an investment boost of millions of baht. This transformation included cleaning the canal over a kilometer stretch, planted with colorful flowers and furnished with two new Japanese bridges. The official reopening took place in 2022 before the Loy Krathong Festival. As CK Travels reports, the canal enjoys a unique, car-free atmosphere that attracts photographers and nature lovers.

Environmental problems and their effects

While the upgrade of the Khlong Mae Kha Canal has achieved initial success, the sudden water pollution casts a dark shadow over the future of this attraction. Residents and local business owners are worried about the negative impact on tourism. The first calls for the authorities to solve the problem have already been made, and the city management has agreed to clean other sections of the waterway in the coming years.

Another worrying sign of the times is the recent earthquake in Huai Nam Dang National Park, which occurred on August 11, 2025, and resulted in significant damage to tourist accommodation. According to Khao24, the closure of the park and the need for repairs were decided by authorities as a safety measure for visitors. The reasons for the landslide, according to experts, include deforestation and uncontrolled tourism, which disrupt the delicate balance of nature.

The future of tourism in Chiang Mai

In view of these developments, the question arises as to what will happen to the tourism sector in Chiang Mai. Tourism pressure has increased significantly in recent years, highlighting the need for a reassessment of sustainable development in the region. The balance between economic growth and ecological responsibility is becoming increasingly challenging. The Khlong Mae Kha Canal can only reach its full potential if those responsible are able to balance both the environment and the needs of the local community.