THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

Similans to close for five months

Similans to close for five months

The Department of National Parks (DNP) has announced that the Similan Islands in Phang Nga will be closed from May 16 for five months.

The Similans are currently crowded with tourists, many of whom are Chinese, who want to enjoy the islands before they close.

Similans to close for five months

(File) Tourists on the Maya Bay beach, on the southern Thai island of Koh Phi Phi. // AFP PHOTO
The head of Mu Koh Similan National Park, Ruamsin Manajongprasert, said: “The DNP is preparing to close many marine national parks along the Andaman coast. During this period nature can recover and have a break from the onslaught of tourism.

Similans to close for five months

(File) Tourists on the Maya Bay beach, on the southern Thai island of Koh Phi Phi. // AFP PHOTO
“It is getting into the monsoon period which will have strong wind and waves. We also want to protect tourists from accidents caused by the strong waves.
“After the islands are closed, the national park officers will patrol the area in order to prevent any tourists entering.
“In addition, patrol boats will be used to check for illegal fishing in the national parks, especially around Koh Bon, which is a small island between Koh Similan and Koh Ta Chai.

Similans to close for five months

(File) Tourists on the Maya Bay beach, on the southern Thai island of Koh Phi Phi. // AFP PHOTO
“During the monsoon we usually find many boats fishing illegally.”
Officials close the islands routinely each year during the monsoon period.

Source: https://thethaiger.com/news/similan-national-park-to-close-for-five-months

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