ABOVE: Tourists and boats swarming Koh Phi Phi Don’s Maya beach in these undated photos sparked a preservation outcry recently. Photo: Niruth Darid Bannob
Rolling out the welcome mat to Thailand’s marine national parks for hordes of visitors poses a serious threat to the environment and all those cute sea animals, the minister of Natural Resources and the Environment announced yesterday.
Gen. Dapong Rattanasuwan said in a meeting with environment-related agencies that alarm over standing-room only crowds such as those seen swarming over protected areas on the Phi Phi islands are made possible by policies that are doing a disservice to Thailand’s marine resources.
Dapong suggested marine parks should reduce the number of boats allowed to the islands, regulate tourist activities, collect entrance fees and better manage waste.
National marine parks should also be wary contracting private to be a part of conservation efforts to save money, as using their own personnel is recommended due to their wider knowledge in managing resources.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation will be compiling ideas and suggestions for review. The improved management of parks will be integrated into a bid to get World Heritage status for the Similan Islands, state media reported.
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