Picture this: the sweeping landscapes of Phu Kradueng National Park, carpeted in lush greenery and rugged terrains, attracting local adventurers in droves. But wait – what’s missing? A cable car! Imagine gliding effortlessly over the canopy, skipping the breathless climb and taking in those majestic views. It’s an exhilarating thought, and residents of Loei province have been envisioning it for years. And now, the hope is to turn this fantasy into reality!
Enter the dynamic duo: Mr. Kunawut Budaduang and the Loei Provincial Merchant Association, warriors united in the campaign for a cable car. Their battle flag? Banners cleverly spread across the province, each imploring the government to prioritize this very project. “The unity here is as solid as granite,” Kunawut passionately declared, emphasizing the community’s unanimous call for action. It’s a call echoing through history, tracing back to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
Rewind to Thaksin’s tenure when he toured Phu Kradueng, stunned by the absence of a cable car. “Why not us?” Thaksin pondered, casting a wistful glance towards our ASEAN neighbors, Malaysia and Singapore, with their touristy lifts. His contemplations sparked the initial flames of the cable car dream, a flame fanned further by another supportive voice – Yingluck Shinawatra, during her time leading the nation.
Yet, here we are – 2025. Despite prominent interest from political heavyweights, the cable car remains elusive. Kunawut criticized the current administration under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for passing the project’s responsibility around like a hot potato. “We need Dasta – the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration – to wear its project manager’s cap earnestly,” urged Kunawut. “It’s time for some clear-cut instructions from Ms. Paetongtarn and less bureaucratic ping-pong.”
The local support is nothing short of overwhelming, with Kunawut claiming a whopping 90% of residents backing the cable car initiative. Surely, Thaksin’s return to the scene would be like adding rocket boosters to a bicycle, pushing this project beyond the finish line once and for all!
Meanwhile, on the government’s sidekick corner, we have Chuwit Mitrchob, deputy director of Dasta, donning the optimism cloak. “Progress? We’ve got it,” said Chuwit, explaining how the Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has set the wheels in motion by instructing Dasta’s board to expedite initiatives. As the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) hums along, a budget of 28 million baht, thanks to the Srettha Thavisin administration, sits at the Budget Bureau’s vault, waiting to spring the project into the design phase.
“Two weeks ago, I received my assignment notice – Dasta is officially the project’s lead coordinator,” Chuwit confirmed with a nod of confirmation. “We’re moving closer to realizing the cable car marvel. If all aligns, construction should be gearing up soon.”
And there you have it – a story suspended midair, much like the soon-to-be iconic Phu Kradueng cable car. With community passion, historical echoes, and government action moving in harmonious symphony, the cable car might soon be part of the national park’s allure, transforming it from a regional gem into a veritable beacon for tourists worldwide.
Wow, a cable car at Phu Kradueng would be amazing! It would make it so much easier for everyone to enjoy the stunning views.
But isn’t the whole point of Phu Kradueng the challenging hike? A cable car might ruin that experience.
I agree! Nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment after a tough climb.
True, but the cable car could open up access to those who are unable to hike such distances due to health issues.
Thaksin’s vision was ahead of its time. It’s about time the government follows through on this project!
Was it really a vision or just another political promise? I’m skeptical until I see results.
Yeah, we should be cautious, but the financial backing is a good sign.
I’m worried about the environmental impact. A cable car might harm the ecosystem.
Exactly my concerns! An EIA is one thing, but preserving nature should be top priority.
If done right, it could actually preserve the area by reducing foot traffic and erosion.
Think about the tourism boost! This could really help the local economy.
True, but we need to ensure that tourism development benefits locals and not just big corporations.
Interesting how Yingluck supported this too. It crosses political lines, which is rare.
I wonder how long it’ll take before we’re actually riding the cable car.
Let’s be real, government projects like these never get finished on time!
Haha, you might be right. But let’s hope they’re serious this time.
At least there’s some movement now, so fingers crossed!
Amazing to see local advocacy in action. Kudos to Kunawut and his team!
I just hope they consider the sustainability aspect thoroughly.
Does anyone know what kind of technology they’ll use for the cable car?
Maybe something state-of-the-art! It’s gotta be safe and reliable.
Education about environmental impact should be part of the cable car initiative as well.
For sure! Though I’m curious if they’ll have guides explaining the surroundings during the ride.
That’s a great idea! It could really enhance the experience.
Honestly, I think it’ll be a game-changer for Phu Kradueng once it’s done. Can’t wait!
Same here! It would definitely make the national park more accessible.
I remember when Thaksin first proposed this. It’s been a long time coming!
What about the funding? Do we know where the money’s really coming from?
I read it’s from the local government and private investors, but transparency is key.
In the end, whether it’s climbing or gliding, it’s the appreciation of nature that matters.