Run for rangers is not enough, say conservation groups

The marathon has drawn donations worth millions of baht and the attention of thousands of participants. This week’s marathon is to unfold in four of the most important national parks in all regions of the nation, including in Kao Yai yesterday.
Thanya Netithammkul, the department’s chief, said the activity coincided with World Ranger Day, held on July 31 every year following a decision of the International Ranger Federation and members at the World Congress of Rangers in 2006. 
“To give importance to the day, it is to both commemorate those rangers who were killed or injured in the line of duty, as well as celebrate the critical work these people do to protect the natural treasures,” said Thanya. The department has held the event annually since 2007.
According to the department, at least 36 rangers have fallen over the past three years, with 39 more injured. The department has two prime funds to support them, as well as their peers from the Royal Forestry and the Marine and Coastal Resources Department.
Yet, some conservation organisations say the support is insufficient.
Seub Nakhasathien Foundation is one group crying out for more help for rangers.
The foundation was set up after Seub Nakhasathien, chief of Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, shot himself in response to work pressure 27 years ago.
Seub foundation has proposed additional measures to take care of them, including a policy specifically addressing the issue.
The department said it has 28,000 officers, including those temporarily hired, to take care of the country’s forest of 102 million rai (16.3 million hectares).