Minister Rejects Forest Encroachment Appeal in Phuket
Thailand's Natural Resources Minister rejected an appeal from illegal forest occupants in Phuket's Nakakerd mountain reserve, upholding orders to demolish 39 structures near Nai Yang beach by July 9.
On July 17, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Choomklin rejected an appeal challenging an administrative order requiring the illegal occupants of protected forest in the Nakakerd mountain reserve near Nai Yang beach in Phuket to vacate and demolish 39 structures. The Forest Department director had issued the original order on June 18, giving occupants until July 9 to remove all buildings and leave the area. After the occupants filed an appeal, the minister upheld the Forest Department's decision and rejected their case, clearing the way for enforcement. Forest Department officials, working with local authorities and police, formally notified the occupants of the decision at the site. The occupants retain the right to challenge the decision in administrative court within 90 days of receiving notice.
