Strict Penalties for Forest Arson as Authorities Ramp Up Surveillance and Enforcement

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture of recent Sattahip forest fire.

 

Following a number of recent forest fires, authorities have issued a reminder that the act of setting fire to protected forests now carries severe penalties in Thailand, with individuals caught in such illegal activities facing imprisonment of 4 to 20 years, a fine ranging from 400,000 to 2 million baht, or both. Authorities have vowed to closely monitor and enforce the law rigorously against all offenders, ensuring no group escapes justice.

 

Wildfires in protected forest areas are often caused by human activity. The destruction of valuable trees, which play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide, accelerates the rapid depletion of forest cover. These fires also result in the loss of many animal lives and contribute to the generation of heavy smoke and PM2.5 dust, leading to adverse health impacts for local communities.

 

Under the National Parks Act of 2019, Section 19, it is illegal for any individual to occupy, clear, or set fire to land within national parks, or to engage in any activity that degrades or alters the land’s condition. Section 41 further stipulates that illegal actions such as land grabbing and forest burning in national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and botanical gardens, are punishable by imprisonment from 4 to 20 years, a fine from 400,000 to 2 million baht, or both.

 

Even though forest reserves may not be directly nearby, it is imperative that all citizens take responsibility for preserving the nation’s natural resources. Everyone can contribute to the conservation effort by actively raising awareness about the dangers of forest fires. This includes promoting education on the issue, encouraging efforts to stop forest burning, and protecting our environment, wildlife, and the health of all Thai people.

 

The campaign slogan for this year is “No More Wildfires.” If you spot a forest fire or witness any behaviour that could lead to one, report it immediately to the forest protection hotline, 1362, available 24/7.

 

-- 2025-01-19

 

 

[watchcat]

1 hour ago, Georgealbert said:

individuals caught in such illegal activities facing imprisonment of 4 to 20 years, a fine ranging from 400,000 to 2 million baht, or both.

 

It's  about time the government got the lead out.

[kwilco]

THis is a traditional going back centuries - the burning is for agricultural purposes. THe problem is, as usual in Thailand, enforcement.