"We have not yet seen any concrete action by the government to resolve environmental problems in the Map Ta Phut industrial zone," said Suthi Atchasai, coordinator of a local citizens' network. "They just told us they have already solved the problem by issuing new regulations instead of complying with the Constitution."

Elderly people and children living in the affected area also joined the march the socalled Dhamma Yattra, (walk for peace), which is heading for Government House. They expect to spend five days on the road and plan to reach Government House by Wednesday.

On their way to Bangkok, protesters have been distributing leaflets explaining about how they are affected by the industrial development at Map Ta Phut.

The Administrative Court in March designated the heavily industrialised zone as a pollutioncontrol area and asked the government to issue and implement an environmental protection master plan to include public participation.

The judges said they were swayed by official reports citing toxic leaks and industrial wastewater and contamination produced by factories in the estate and detection of 20 types of extremely cancerous toxic fumes in surrounding areas.

A health study also found that the incidence of cancers and leukaemia among the villagers was five times higher than the national level. Another study showed that residents were also experiencing genetic defects.

But so far, there has been no any effective action from the government to protect the environment and quality of life of local residents.

"They just devised a plan and called it an environmental action plan. They never even bothered to ask the opinion of local people about it. They are just insensitive to our problems," Suthi said.