Govt prepares defence of Khao Yai world heritage status
THE EXPANSION of highways and new irrigation projects were the primary concerns raised concerning the world heritage status of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, with a report on the issue to be handed to the World Heritage Centre on February 1.
Thailand’s National Committee on the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage Thursday met to discuss the topic of Unesco’s concerns about the impact of development projects’ on the environment, concluding that the UN body’s concerns could be addressed. The meeting took place at the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning.
Deputy Prime Minister General Prawit Wongsuwan, who is chairman of the committee, said after the meeting that the main discussion was the consideration of the status of the world heritage site in light of the many development projects in the area.
“The main issues raised by Unesco were about the highway expansion and irrigation projects in the world heritage site area. However, the relevant agencies can respond to all concerns and we will submit a report on these issues to the World Heritage Centre next month,” Prawit said.
“The status of Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex will be discussed again in the committee’s 41st convention this year.”
