Chiang Mai Battered By 200 Fires Over 4 Months Destroying Over 1000 Rai

[Jai Dee]

Chiang Mai battered by 200 fires over 4 months destroying over 1000 rai

Head of the Office of Natural Resources and Environment Chiang Mai Pu-Chong Insomephan (ภุชงค์ อินสมพันธ์) revealed that from October of last year until this month the province has experienced 190 forest fires and sustained damage to 1,050 rai of forest land.

Mr. Pu-Chong stated that the most frequently hit area was located in Hod (ฮอด) District, followed by Ma On (แม่ออน) District. The provinces famed Doi Suthep hill peak has been hit with 10 fires, which though considered less than previous years, has still resulted in minor damage.

Chiang Mai province has laid out measures to prevent further fires by preparing specialized forest fire fighting teams and calling for cooperation from local administrations to create fire barriers. Volunteers have also been drafted to help monitor and safeguard against blazes.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 February 2008