In an ambitious venture that promises both technological marvel and minimal ecological disturbance, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Tienthong has confirmed a landmark project on the horizon for tourists and thrill-seekers: a cable car route up to the picturesque Phu Kradueng. Slated for an impressive completion target in late 2026, the initiative is set to carve its niche into the heart of Thailand’s stunning natural scenery without disturbing the popular hiking paths that currently challenge the adventurous.
June 9th saw Minister Tienthong taking a hands-on approach with a high-profile visit to Phu Kradueng National Park, situated in the heart of Loei province. Accompanied by his trusty advisor, Jakrapat Klongpayanabaan, and the minister’s sharp-eyed secretary, Krittada Tantuedtit, this dynamic trio delved into the developmental strategies for the project with a fervor that would make any tourist beam with anticipation. Their day in the lush surroundings was filled with lively discussions with national park officials, representatives from the cable car campaign group, and a colorful assembly of grassroots stakeholders.
Their agenda was as rigorous as a Phu Kradueng hike, as it included a meticulous survey of potential starting stations and crucial tourist transfer points. Meanwhile, the enthusiasm wasn’t confined to the planning rooms. Over 500 residents—students, local government officials, and passionate locals—flocked to the meeting, their presence a vibrant tapestry of community spirit that included notable figures like Loei’s governor, Chaiyaporn Jarupong, and MPs Lertsak Pattanchaiyakun and Saran Timsuwan, all rallying behind this thrilling new ascent into the hills.
The project’s blueprint is a daring narrative in its own right, laid out with a clear, efficient timeline of 15 months. Careful plans call for the installation of 12 robust support pillars, each claiming a surprisingly compact 6 x 6 square meters—a feat of engineering precision. Importantly, the installation is designed with the terrain’s natural rhythm in mind, ensuring the beloved hiking trails remain a serene journey for traditionalists, unchanged and unblemished.
In a delightful forecast from Sorawong, the first monumental pillar should be rising like a sentinel on the horizon by the end of 2026, or at the latest, early 2027. And with this, a new era of convenient day visits is set to bloom, eliminating the need for overnight stays traditionally required for explorers to savor the full Phu Kradueng experience.
Yet, as the cables prepare to span the valleys, environmental concerns remain on the radar. Minister Sorawong’s commitment to navigating these eco-spheres is clear. With open dialogue promised with NGOs and environmental stakeholders, every legislative loop—such as those tied to the national parks act—will be gracefully hurdled within the planned timeline. Nothing is left to chance; the project thrives on a tightly knit schedule, complete with fallback options to ensure those 15 months are as smooth as a cable car glide.
An emotional footnote to the plan’s unveiling came from Sanguan Kamatasila, a former municipal councillor and lifetime resident who has seen projects begin and fizzle through the seasons of political change. At 75, Sanguan holds onto a dream, simpler yet profound, to glide at least once above the tree canopy of his homeland—his voice echoing the hopes of many as reported by KhaoSod.
And so, with a mix of technological promise and community celebration, Phu Kradueng is set to emerge as more than a nature park; it is poised to become an aerial adventure wrapped in eco-conscious foresight. One thing is assured: come late 2026, we might all be trying to secure our tickets for this heady ascent into the skies of Loei.
I’m all for advancements in tourism, but is minimizing ecological disturbance just a marketing gimmick? Shouldn’t we be preserving nature rather than exploiting it for convenience?
I think it’s a bit dramatic to say we’re exploiting it. This project is designed to reduce foot traffic on the trails, which could actually help preserve the environment.
But what about the construction impact? Installing even a ‘minimal’ structure still disrupts the habitat.
This is always the argument, and while it’s valid, we sometimes have to accept small changes for greater good. Tourism helps raise awareness and funds for preservation.
This could boost tourism, sure, but is that really a good thing? Massive influxes of tourists can lead to environmental degradation, no matter how green the intentions are.
The cable car might streamline tourist flow and actually protect the trails from erosion. It’s about managing the impact more effectively.
True, but do we risk ruining what makes Phu Kradueng special? The thrill of the hike and the untouched nature?
I’ve led countless groups up Phu Kradueng. This could significantly lower the barrier for those with physical limitations. It’s inclusive tourism!
But isn’t part of the magic in the challenge? I’ve always felt the climb itself is what makes the view so rewarding.
I get that, but not everyone can make the climb. Why deny them the chance to experience the beauty too?
I love hiking there, I just hope they don’t destroy the natural beauty or disturb wildlife too much. That’s what makes it so special!
Exactly my thoughts! I’m worried that ‘eco-friendly’ will be a token gesture and not a genuine effort.
Let’s hope Minister Tienthong stays true to his promises. Actions will speak louder than words once construction starts.
Cable cars are iconic in many parts of the world. If done right, this could become an attraction in its own right, benefiting the local economy.
My main concern is safety. Are these cable cars going to be maintained properly over time, or will they just become another neglected infrastructure project?
Hopefully, ongoing maintenance costs are included in the budget. It’s not just construction but long-term safety that’s crucial.
Right. The last thing we’d want is for Phu Kradueng to become synonymous with accidents.
Looking forward to shorter visits for those of us who can’t spend all day hiking, especially if it means we can support local tourism more frequently!
This whole thing sounds like a money-making scheme under the guise of eco-friendliness. Seen it happen before.
Wouldn’t be the first time a project was more about profits than people. Let’s hope this is different.
Finally, something that acknowledges accessibility needs while still preserving the natural allure of Phu Kradueng. Where do I sign up for a ticket?
With the climate crisis, I’m skeptical about any ‘eco-friendly’ developments. It might just be a drop in the ocean.
It’s about time! This will give people more options and make Phu Kradueng an even more appealing destination for travelers.
Mother Nature doesn’t need a cable car. She needs respect and preservation, not attraction.
I wonder how this project will affect the local flora and fauna. Can we really consider it benign?
There’s an emotional value in seeing someone like Sanguan achieve his dream. Sometimes progress is about emotion too.
True, dreams like his deserve recognition. I just hope the project’s benefits aren’t only sentimental.
Some may say this is commercialization, but isn’t it also modernization? How else can we share beauty with the world?