Krabi: Authorities have initiated an investigation into a private company's activities in the Khao Khram Subdistrict, where land in the middle of a valley is being cleared and sold through nominees. This development has sparked concerns among locals regarding potential negative impacts on the nearby Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam watershed forest, a notable tourist attraction in Krabi province.
According to Thai News Agency, the inspection was led by Mr. Bandhoon Phumphamor, Mayor of the Khao Khram Subdistrict Administrative Organization, alongside Krabi Forestry officials, community leaders, and members of local community forest committees. They examined the area in Moo 2, Khao Khram Subdistrict, Mueang Krabi District after receiving complaints from residents about the land clearance and division for sale. There are suspicions that the land is being sold through nominees for foreign nationals.
The investigation revealed that more than 50 rai of land had been cleared and subdivided into plots measuring 5-7 rai each, with a selling price of 2 million baht per rai. The deforestation included cutting down trees along the mountainside to construct enclosures for deer and Indian peacocks, disrupting the headwaters of Khlong Tha Pom. This area is valued for its pristine beauty and significance as a tourist attraction. The deforestation has led to muddy and turbid water flow into Khlong Tha Pom during rain, affecting the ecosystem, tourism, and the local water supply.
Authorities warn that the construction activities by land buyers, coupled with inadequate planning and wastewater management, could further damage the watershed forests. Relevant agencies are urged to enforce the law strictly to prevent further degradation.
Upon completing the inspection, officials plan to measure the area to confirm that any structures are legally distanced from the mountain. Additionally, there are plans to undertake reforestation efforts to restore the affected areas.