Once again, a massive fire broke out near Khao Tabak in the Muang district of Nakhon Nayok on Thursday. The military was swiftly deployed to help control the raging inferno, with the provincial governor also contributing firefighters and officer cadets from the prestigious Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (CRMA).
Heavy smoke clouds were initially spotted around the mountain pass. However, accessing the area proved challenging due to strong winds fueling the fire. Reinforcements from the wildfire station and Forest Resource Management Bureau 9th were also sent in to tackle the blaze. As of yesterday morning, the fire continued to burn, with additional personnel deployed to help contain it.
Athapol Charoenshunsa, acting chief of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, explained that officials were working diligently to control the fire. The flames had already spread to Khuean Srinagarindra National Park in Kanchanaburi and Mae Ping National Park and Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary in Tak. Wildfires like these are predominantly caused by humans, such as farmers clearing forests for their crops or hunters pursuing wild animals.
As a response to the increasing reports of illegal burning in reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and national park areas, more officials have been deployed to patrol these zones. Anyone found breaking the law will be met with severe punishment, warned Athapol.
Athapol mentioned that he had instructed relevant agencies to expedite their inspections within 30 days, aiming to create an effective database for managing wildfires and finding solutions to the country’s persistent haze problems. According to Khao Yai National Park Chief Chaiya Huayhongtong, the latest fire was situated a mere kilometer from the park.
Officials reacted quickly by establishing a fire barrier to protect the national park and nearby world heritage sites from further destruction. The Royal Forest Department has also deployed its Yiew Fai unit to join other units in extinguishing the flames, with air support provided by the Royal Thai Army, added Athapol.
In conclusion, the swift action and collaboration from multiple agencies showcase Thailand’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage and addressing the challenges that wildfires and haze present. As the country takes significant steps toward maintaining the balance between human development and environmental preservation, the hope is that such incidents will decrease in the future.
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