Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park Ranger Dies While Battling Forest Fire

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Daily News.

 

An officer from Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park has died in the line of duty while helping to extinguish a forest fire in Chiang Mai’s Fang district. The officer, identified as Mr. Pongdanai Jaipik, went missing during operations and was later found deceased.

 

The incident occurred in the area surrounding Ban Huai Mayom, Village 13, in the Wiang subdistrict. Mr. Pongdanai was last seen at around 13:00 on 13 April while taking part in firefighting efforts. As the blaze began to subside and the team made their way back, heavy rain started to fall, during which time Mr. Pongdanai became separated from his group.

 

Search and rescue operations were immediately launched by rangers, soldiers, forestry officials, and local administrators. Volunteers from nearby communities, including Ban Huai Bon and Ban Huai Mayom, also joined the search. Initial efforts were hampered by worsening weather conditions, with rain and darkness forcing teams to temporarily withdraw.

 

On the morning of 14 April, a large-scale operation resumed. Sadly, the body of Mr. Pongdanai was discovered later that day. His motorcycle had previously been found abandoned, but no signs of his whereabouts were apparent until the renewed search.

 

Mr. Narongrit Klin Sawang, head of the Doi Pha Hom Pok fire control station, confirmed that the fire had initially broken out on 13 April. Mr. Pongdanai had actively participated in the suppression effort, and it was only during the return journey, amidst deteriorating conditions, that the separation occurred.

 

Following the discovery of his body, officials coordinated with police for forensic examination and are proceeding with all necessary legal protocols.

 

The Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, expressed his deepest condolences over the loss of a dedicated officer who gave his life in service to the nation’s forests. He has ordered all relevant departments to provide full support to Mr. Pongdanai’s family, including funeral arrangements, welfare benefits, and emotional support.

 

In a statement, Mr. Atthaphon also urged all rangers and forest protection personnel to prioritise safety in their operations and acknowledged the immense risks they face in protecting Thailand’s natural heritage. He extended his heartfelt gratitude and encouragement to all those continuing to serve under such challenging and dangerous conditions.

 

-- 2025-04-15