Plan to set up a new national park in Tak faces opposition

A conservationist voices opposition to a plan to set up a new national park within the Um Phang (อุ้มผาง) Wildlife Sanctuary in Tak.

The National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department had announced it would set aside part of the Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary and declare it Thee Lor Su (ทีลอซู) national park for tourism purpose.

Panithi Tangpati (ปณิธิ ตั้งผาติ), chairman of Tak’s Western Forest Complex Conservation Committee, warned of the effects on wild animals and other forestry resources caused by the anticipated influx of tourists into the new national park.

Mr. Panithi said the forest also would not be able to rehabilitate itself if visitors were allowed to come all year round. Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary is where the Thee Lor Su waterfall, rated the 6th most beautiful waterfall in the world, is located.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 20 May 2006

Thee-Lor-Su Waterfall, Umphang, Tak Province, Thailand

wow! another cool place I haven't been!