Thai Environment Minister Visits Phuket to Tackle Park Encroachment and Launch Boat Taxi Initiative

Phuket —

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, led a high-level delegation to Sirinat National Park in Thalang District, Phuket, to oversee ongoing efforts against land encroachment and to advance new initiatives designed at easing traffic congestion and boosting eco-tourism.

Joined by senior officials including Deputy Permanent Secretary Nipon Jamnongsirisak, National Park Department Director-General Attapol Charoenchansa, Royal Forest Department Director-General Yongyuth Nakviroj, and ministry staff, the minister inspected progress in reclaiming illegally occupied land within the park. He emphasized that while some buyers may have been misled into purchasing plots with invalid land documents, the law must be applied equally.

“Those who encroach on forests, beaches, and coastal areas will ultimately lose everything. These are national assets that must be returned for the benefit of all citizens,” Suchart stressed.

The minister also addressed concerns over Bang Tao Beach, a hub for local commerce. He noted that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had expressed deep concern for residents’ livelihoods. In response, the Forest Department and National Park Department will convene an urgent meeting on June 8 to establish a framework that balances environmental protection with community needs.

A major highlight of the visit was the introduction of a “Boat Taxi” project, designed to alleviate Phuket’s severe traffic congestion. The initiative envisions floating piers along park beaches to enable water transport directly from Patong Beach to Phuket International Airport. Suchart explained that this would not only reduce road traffic but also enhance the visitor experience by showcasing the natural beauty of Sirinat National Park.

“Sirinat has immense potential to become a world-class destination. This project will help distribute tourists more efficiently while elevating the park’s profile internationally,” he said.

On June 8, the minister will continue his mission at Sirinat National Park, meeting with park staff to offer support, reviewing progress in forest encroachment cases, and inspecting coastal erosion sites. The visit will culminate in discussions on long-term strategies to protect and restore Phuket’s fragile marine ecosystems.