Resort Found Illegally Built on Protected Land in Kaeng Krachan National Park

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

Authorities have launched legal proceedings after uncovering a large-scale illegal development involving a hotel and several resort-style buildings on state land and within the boundaries of Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi.

Mr. Mongkhon Chaiphakdee, chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, revealed that on 13 April, a joint task force including national park officials, representatives from the Royal Irrigation Department, and local administrative officers from Kaeng Krachan District conducted an inspection at Moo 8, Ban Tha Ruea, in Kaeng Krachan subdistrict. The inspection followed a public complaint received on 10 April regarding unlawful construction activities in the area.

The team found that over five rai of land, including state-owned property and designated national park territory, had been encroached upon. The area lies within the protected irrigation zone of the Kaeng Krachan Dam.

The development, allegedly spearheaded by a woman identified only as Mrs. Kanyapa, consists of a hotel, office buildings, swimming pool, rowhouses, and several villas. Some structures were already operational, while others were still under construction.

“This is a clear and serious violation of multiple laws,” said Mr. Mongkhon. “The case involves illegal encroachment on state and national park land, as well as the unauthorised operation of a hotel business. Legal action is being taken under the Royal Irrigation Act of 1942, the National Parks Act of 2019, and the Hotel Act of 2004, all of which carry penalties including imprisonment and substantial fines.”

Authorities have compiled evidence and forwarded the case to police investigators at Kaeng Krachan Provincial Police Station. As of now, Mrs. Kanyapa has not presented herself for questioning.

The investigation is ongoing, and park officials have stressed that enforcement will proceed in full accordance with the law.

-- 2025-04-15