Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

Stricter safety regulations have been introduced at the "Floating Rain Tree" attraction in Mae Ngat Somboon Chon dam, located within Sri Lanna National Park in Chiang Mai, after a recent boat collision. The park has implemented 13 new rules, set a limit of 66 licensed boat guides, and established a registration deadline by 17 January to enhance tourism safety.

Previously, the park lacked comprehensive regulations, which led to the collision incident. Now, all boats must be inspected, properly registered, and display clear numbers, as stated by the park chief, Anon Kunnil. These measures were decided after discussions with local authorities, police, the Marine Department, and fisheries officials.

To streamline water traffic, the park has created a "floating checkpoint" to check licences and guide IDs. Buoys have been placed to separate incoming and outgoing lanes, with international-standard navigation lights installed. Boats now require green, red, and white lights, along with onboard flashlights, by 22 January, or operators risk prosecution.

In the area around the rain tree, boats are instructed to stay right, overtake on the left, and reduce speed. Engines must be turned off near the tree, and guides must paddle clockwise for viewing; only restart engines once away from the vicinity to increase safety and minimise pollution.

Tourists are required to wear life jackets at all times unless engines are off for photography. Guides must undergo safety and environmental training, with licence suspension as a penalty for non-compliance. The attraction will close annually from 1 April to 31 May for natural recovery, and the dam area will be zoned for various activities to prevent disputes.

These new regulations aim to elevate Chiang Mai's tourism safety standards to international levels while advocating for sustainable conservation. Operators failing to comply with the rules face temporary shutdowns, and Mr Anon encourages strict adherence to these measures, reported the Bangkok Post.

Key Takeaways

• New rules were established after a boat crash at Mae Ngat Somboon Chon dam.

• All boats must be inspected and registered with clear identification.

• Strict navigation and safety guidelines introduced for boats and guides.

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Speeding Tourist Boats Fined After Collision at Mae Ngat Dam

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-13

 

 

Bit baffled why you can't take a picture still wearing your lifejacket even if the engine is off?!? Which official was on "whatever" coming up with that??

On an aside, has anyone tuned in here fished that water?

If Thailand wants to attract more Japanese and US rednecks, they should stock it with largemouth bass... Both demographics pay big bucks for exotic bass fishing trips. Huge money if there's a chance of catching a world record bass.