Don't sacrifice the environment for profits
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We should be delighted that many people are now becoming aware of the need to preserve the environment and protect the delicate balance of nature. This need has increased several fold over recent years as there are more and more people whose boundless gre
Recently, in this very column, I explained my strong stance against the encroachment of national forests and wildlife habitats. Sometimes, I even cancel trips if I find that the resort or destination I’m heading for is of a questionable background.
At this time of year, when the weather is pleasantly cool, concerts are being planned at several locations, including the dozens of resorts at Nakhon Ratchasima’s Wang Nam Khiew district. Some of these locations are allegedly encroaching on national forests and having legal problems with the authorities.
Relevant state agencies have finally decided to crack down on encroachers after years of refusing to take action despite the many complaints.
Still, better late than never!
Though it has taken them a long time, the agencies deserve praise. However, one can only hope this is not a passing fancy.
Forest encroachment and squatting on public land have been long-standing problems in this country. Many alleged owners of encroached land are big shots. A former director-general of a government agency was recently moved to an inactive post at the Prime Minister’s Office after being found to be involved in this problem.
The government should set a clear framework in dealing with this problem. High-ranking government people should set an example for other public officials, as well as the general public, by ensuring they don’t encroach or squat on public land. Every time a government figure is found involved, the matter should be explained to the public as soon as possible in order to show that the administration is sincere in tackling this problem.
It is understandable that investors want to make a profit from their investment and also want to please their customers. However, harming the environment to make customers happy just does not make sense.
Hence, authorities involved should make it very clear to the public that encroaching on national forests and violating laws for the sake of profits will just not be tolerated. People also need to ensure that these offenders are not able to get away with it.
