Helicopters Deployed to Combat Forest Fire on Khao Loi Mountain

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A massive forest fire on Khao Loi mountain in the Phayayen Subdistrict of Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima, has burned an estimated 1,000 rai of forest. Officials are racing to extinguish the flames, with helicopters from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment conducting water drops.

 

The fire, which spans areas in Moo 3 Ban Nong Yang and Moo 9 Ban Sok Luk Phatthana, has proven difficult to access on foot due to the steep and loose rocky terrain.

 

On 10 January, helicopters were dispatched from Kanchanaburi to assist in firefighting efforts. Using a private water source located 5 kilometres from the fire, the helicopters carry 1,000 litres of water per trip, completing a round trip in approximately five minutes. Operations are expected to continue over the next two days, with officials optimistic the fire will be fully extinguished within that time.

 

Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the Second Army Region, conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas and held a meeting with local authorities. He noted that while the fire is extensive, it is manageable with the current resources. However, he confirmed that additional aviation units will be called upon if the fire persists.

 

Nakhon Ratchasima Deputy Governor Suraphan Silpasuwan clarified public concerns, explaining that the fire is in the Khao Sia Da A National Forest Reserve, not in Khao Yai National Park, as many had initially feared. “The fire is outside the boundaries of Khao Yai National Park,” he reassured, urging the public to remain calm.

 

Efforts are ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to bring the situation under control.

 

Related article:

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1348328-forest-fire-devastates-100-rai-of-dong-phaya-yen-authorities-suspect-poachers-behind-blaze/

 

-- 2025-01-12

 

 

[hotchilli]

Started early this year