Phu Kradueng Cable Car Set to Launch by 2027 Amid Environmental Concerns

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The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has confirmed plans to launch a cable car at Phu Kradueng National Park by 2027, reviving a 40-year-old proposal. The project will allow up to 5,000 visitors daily, a limit imposed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to minimise environmental impact.

This initiative has long sparked debate between the government and conservationists. Critics argue that increased footfall could harm the park's environment, overshadowing potential economic benefits. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong emphasised the project’s completion during his tenure, highlighting that it has cleared stakeholder consultations and necessary hearings.

A budget of 28 million baht (approximately US$857,290) has been allocated for the study and design phase, though DASTA plans to use 25.4 million baht (approximately US$777,640) for this. The route will span 4.5 kilometres, featuring 32 cars, each seating eight passengers. Design and environmental assessment completion is targeted for March 2026, with construction slated to begin in August 2026 at a projected cost of 1 billion baht (approximately US$30.6 million), with the cable car operational in 2027.

Minister Sorawong assured that the cable car won’t disrupt the existing hiking trail, instead offering an alternative for tourists of differing physical abilities. The aim is to facilitate single-day visits to Phu Kradueng, located in Loei province, thereby easing the current accommodation pressures as visitor numbers, range from 60,000 to 70,000 annually, are expected to rise.

DASTA Director General Siripakorn Cheawsamoot confirmed the 5,000 daily visitor cap to prevent overtourism and protect the pristine environment. Complementing this, DASTA Chairman Titipong Khiewpaisal detailed that the national park currently limits its tourism infrastructure to nine to 10 housing units and space for 3,200 tents. The entrance area, managed by DASTA, accommodates tourism and commercial offerings without overwhelming the ecological system.

The cable car might not operate throughout the year, aligning with national park policies that mandate park closures for ecological recovery during certain months. This careful integration and planned visitor management aim to maintain the balance between tourism growth and environmental stewardship at Phu Kradueng National Park.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-22