Long-running illegal gold mining in the Bilin River, east of Winmaung village, Bilin Township, Mon State, has polluted the river, causing villages along the river to lose access to clean water and harming local livelihoods, according to residents.
The gold mining began around 2015 with permission from the Karen National Union (KNU) and involvement of Chinese business operators. Over time, chemicals used in mining have increasingly seeped into the river, worsening pollution.
Consequently, more than 20 villages along the Bilin River are struggling to find safe drinking water. Farming has also been badly affected.
The crops can no longer grow because polluted water kills plants, and livestock cannot drink from the river due to health risks.
“The river water is no longer clear. It has turned brown like coffee, so people are afraid to use it. Even the well water is starting to turn yellow. Animals cannot drink it, and people have to dig hand-dug wells just to survive,” said a resident from Bilin Township.
The polluted river water has also harmed agriculture, leading to food shortages in the area. Health problems are increasing as well.
Some residents who used the contaminated water reported diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, weakness, and other illnesses, raising serious concerns about public health.
Due to the worsening pollution, the KNU has temporarily ordered gold mining operations to stop in Brigade 5 and Brigade 1 areas. However, locals doubt the suspension will last long.
A woman from Bilin Township said mining operators pay taxes to the KNU and are likely to resume work once the water clears.
“They say they stopped the machines to let the water clear, but once they restart, the pollution will come back again,” she said.
Because of the situation, villagers do not know which authorities or organisations they can request help.
Gold mining along rivers in Bilin and nearby Kyaikto townships began during the civilian government period with foreign involvement.
Since the military coup, these mining activities have expanded further. After the coup, people have lost the freedom to speak out or file complaints, making daily life more difficult and increasing hardships for local communities.
