Phuket –
On May 14th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, led an inspection at Nui Beach in Karon, Phuket, following complaints from locals about restricted access and unauthorized toll collection. He was joined by senior officials including Assistant Minister Pol. Lt. Gen. Nantachart Supamongkol, National Parks Director-General Attapol Charoenchansa, Deputy Director-General of the Royal Forest Department Phatthapong Sumittiphat, and Phuket Governor Nirun Phongsitthithavorn.
Our previous story:
Now for the update:
The visit came just one day after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected the site, showing long-standing disputes over encroachment. Nui Beach has been subject to legal proceedings since 2018, with forest land and public areas allegedly occupied for private gain. While cases are nearing conclusion, obstacles remain in fully restoring the area.
Minister Suchart stressed that no individual or group has the right to block access to public beaches or charge entry fees. He ordered relevant agencies to dismantle barriers within one week, restore the natural environment, and move toward designating the site as a “Recreational Forest” for fair public use. He also warned officials that failure to act decisively would result in reassignment, showing the government’s commitment to preventing influential groups from exploiting state land.
Further coordination with the Royal Forest Department, Agricultural Land Reform Office, and Phuket authorities will examine other disputed plots, particularly those misused or unlawfully occupied. If found to be original state forest, Suchart confirmed they will be revoked and returned to state management.
The minister explained that this action reflects the Prime Minister’s directive to tackle natural resource encroachment nationwide. The government wants to reassure citizens that public land and natural heritage will be reclaimed and protected without exception, ensuring beaches and forests remain shared assets for all.
