Thailand Launches Crackdown on 40 Forest Encroachments in Phuket
Thailand's Environment Ministry launched a crackdown on 40 forest encroachments in Phuket, mobilizing a task force across eight priority locations to reclaim illegally occupied state land. The cleared areas will be redesignated as recreatio
Environment Minister Suchat Chomklin announced on August 5, 2569 that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is advancing systematic forest protection and restoration measures to combat illegal state land occupation. The Forestry Department has mobilized a special task force to conduct detailed inspections at eight priority locations in Phuket province, including Khao Ta Kian, Khao Muang, Khuan Tham Ta In, Khao Daeng, Khao Mai Son, Khuan Na Ta Laeng, Had Paradise, and Had Kalong. Additional sweeping inspections have identified 40 more suspected encroachment sites across the island.
The operation, known as "Reclaim Phuket's Forests," involves coordination between provincial administration, police, the Central Investigation Bureau, the Land Reform Office, naval forces, and other relevant agencies. Forestry Department Director-General Nikorn Sirotjananon revealed that beyond enforcement actions, the department is preparing to propose redesignating the cleared areas as recreation forests and eco-tourism destinations. The initiative aims to develop these spaces as public areas where local communities can benefit through recreational activities and environmental education, generating supplementary income while returning valuable forest resources to the people.
