National Park Area Undergoes Boundary Revision
A significant adjustment to a national park’s boundaries has been finalized, impacting approximately 155,865 rai of land. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin, who led the committee overseeing the decision, stated that the resolution is grounded in extensive evidence, scientific data, and legal assessments, incorporating input from various agencies. This move aims to settle a land dispute that has persisted for over five decades.
Clarifying Land Rights and Resolving Overlaps
Minister Suchart explained that the boundary revision aligns with a cabinet resolution from March 14, 2023, designed to clarify land rights for more than 5,000 local residents. He emphasized that this action does not constitute a revocation of forest land but rather a recalibration of the park’s perimeter to address overlapping land use issues.
Breakdown of Withdrawn Land
The 155,865 rai being withdrawn from the park’s designated area fall into four distinct categories:
- 53,416 rai: This portion overlaps with land reform areas managed by the Agricultural Land Reform Office (Alro), where occupants already possess legal land rights.
- 8,328 rai: This area encompasses what are known as Thai Samakkhi model villages.
- 87,500 rai: Designated for security-related projects, this land will be managed by Alro under the guidelines set by the National Land Policy Board.
- 6,621 rai: This section is reserved for military use.
Disputed Areas and Future Plans
Concurrently, 109,420 rai currently classified as disputed territory will remain within the park’s boundaries. Authorities will undertake a verification process for approximately 5,200 land rights claims within these areas, a procedure anticipated to conclude within six months.
Minister Suchart addressed public concerns, stating, “We have approved the withdrawal of about 150,000 rai, not more than 200,000 rai as claimed on social media.” He further clarified that this decision has no impact on ongoing court cases. In a contrasting development, plans are also in motion to expand the park by an additional 86,966.29 rai.
Nationwide Application of Land Dispute Resolution System
Attapon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, confirmed that the boundary adjustment utilized the One Map system. This integrated system is slated for nationwide implementation to systematically resolve land disputes across the country.
This recent decision marks a departure from previous public sentiment, notably the “Save Thap Lan” campaign two years ago. During that period, the majority of participants in public hearings organized by the department opposed proposals to remove over 240,000 rai from the park.
