Teens spark fire near bamboo, raising wildfire fears
Two teenagers were filmed starting a fire near a bamboo grove in Nakhon Ratchasima's Sikhio district, raising wildfire concerns as dry conditions could allow flames to spread rapidly through the flammable vegetation.
NAKHON RATCHASIMA — Social media users have shared a video showing two teenagers lighting a fire near a bamboo grove, prompting concerns it could spread uncontrollably in dry conditions.
A local Facebook page posted the clip with a caption stating that two youths were seen starting a fire near Saphan 1 Market in Sikhio subdistrict, Sikhio district. The area is close to dry bamboo, which can act as highly flammable fuel, raising the risk of a wider blaze. The purpose of the fire remains unclear, and authorities have been urged to investigate and monitor the situation. Residents were also asked to report similar incidents immediately.
The footage was recorded in the early evening of April 26. It shows two teenagers, one wearing a blue shirt and white shorts, the other a patterned shirt with black trousers, crouching as they build a fire beside a large bamboo cluster. Smoke can be seen spreading into the surrounding area.
Although the location resembles a wooded community area without nearby homes, passers-by expressed concern that the fire could spread quickly due to the dry season. The ground is covered with fallen bamboo leaves, twigs and other dry debris, which could fuel a fast-moving fire that may be difficult to control.
Online users also questioned the teenagers' intentions, with some speculating they may have been using smoke to drive out bees, catch insects or grill fish.
However, provincial authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima have enforced a strict no-burning policy. The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office announced on November 5, 2025 a ban on all burning from late winter 2025 through summer 2026 to tackle haze and PM2.5 pollution.
The ban, covering all 32 districts, applies to forests, agricultural land, roadsides and community areas, particularly during the dry season from January to April. Officials, including local administrators, police and community leaders, have been instructed to strictly enforce the law. Any burning must be stopped immediately, and violators will face legal action. The order remains in effect until May 31, 2026.
