Picture courtesy: Thai PBS

 

The renowned Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves. This follows a tragic mudslide on August 23 that claimed 13 lives near the mountain’s base.

 

Authorities displayed "Stop" and "No Entry" signs at the temple entrance today, per an order from the Phuket Sangha Office. The temple’s abbot had already been instructed to cease all construction activities on Khao Nark Kerd Mountain, where the 45m tall, white marble-covered Big Buddha statue stands.

 

Forest Department officials suspect that the fatal mudslide was exacerbated by illegal deforestation on the mountain slopes, part of a national forest reserve. The illegal clearing may have destabilised the terrain, contributing to the disaster.

 

The Big Buddha, a 45m high and 25.45m wide statue in a seated position, faces Chalong Bay and was declared the 'Buddhist Treasure of Phuket' by Thailand's Supreme Patriarch in 2008.

 

The landmark offers panoramic 360° views of the island, including sights of Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, and Chalong Bay, making it a staple in global tourist guides, reported Thain PBS.

 

This popular tourist destination now finds itself embroiled in a complex legal and environmental issue. The investigation aims to determine the extent of any unauthorized encroachment and the subsequent environmental impact.

The temple, known for its spiritual and aesthetic significance, stands shuttered until further notice as authorities work to get to the bottom of these serious allegations.

 

Both local and international visitors who had planned to visit the temple will now find the site off-limits. The outcome of this investigation could set a significant precedent for how such issues are handled in Thailand, balancing cultural heritage with environmental conservation.

 

Local officials and environmental advocates urge patience and cooperation during this sensitive time, as the investigation could lead to substantial reforms in how religious and historical sites interact with protected natural areas.

 

-- 2024-09-03

 

 

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1 hour ago, webfact said:

The renowned Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves.

 

But they still want the tourist dollars.

Big Buddha will prevail, they will investigate, ruminate and reopen.

3 hours ago, webfact said:

The temple’s abbot had already been instructed to cease all construction activities on Khao Nark Kerd Mountain, where the 45m tall, white marble-covered Big Buddha statue stands.

 

Forest Department officials suspect that the fatal mudslide was exacerbated by illegal deforestation on the mountain slopes, part of a national forest reserve. The illegal clearing may have destabilised the terrain, contributing to the disaster.

 

Leave the temple . but do urgent reforestation on the slopes .

If the abbot gave the order to illegally cut the trees off , fine him .

1 hour ago, watchcat said:

 

But they still want the tourist dollars.

It is closed.

The illegal clearing may have destabilised the terrain, contributing to the disaster.

 

Don't bet against it,