Koh Lanta: Development Run Amuk?

[onomataho]

I just returned to Koh Lanta for a third year, and I am very depressed at what I have found. Rampant development has dramatically changed this once idyllic island. With development has come unmanaged stormwater runoff, dirt, noise, traffic, and most disturbing, a change in the pace to life. Added to this, the trash on the beach is appalling. It is no longer a peaceful place to relax and enjoy life. The pace of change is here is nothing short of dramatic. I am sorry to say that it will only become worse. My plan was to stay for most of the next six months but I may cut this short.

I am a land use planner by education and profession. What is it about the Thai mentality that allows development without regard to impact? I feel sorry for the people who live here. Sure they have made money developing their land but they have sold it to the devil.

Edited October 20, 2007 by onomataho