DASHED SOLUTION
Climbing in national parks is not illegal, confirmed Mr Worapot. However, it is necessary to file certain paperwork, and permission must be granted by the park chief.
“Normally, climbing can be done in a park if the operators get permission from officers. All they have to do is send a letter requesting permission to conduct this kind of business in the area,” Mr Worapot said.
“In this case, it doesn’t matter if they do apply to designate the area as a climbing zone, as I have already decided to ban this activity. The walls are too steep, it is too dangerous.
“Please do not compare us to other places, as every officer has their own way of making decisions, and I say ‘no’ to this.”
Mr Worapot explained that he was taking a hard line on the issue following operators disobeying orders banning climbing.
“We have warned them a number of times, but the businesses keep getting bigger and bigger. I must be firm.”
Mr Worapot has posted signs informing operators and tourists that climbing in the area is illegal. However, he pointed out that tourists weren’t his primary focus.
“Operators know that they are not supposed to climb, but still do. Tourists will not climb without operators to lead them,” he said. “So, we will not press charges against tourists or fine them.”
Additional reporting by Kongleaphy Keam.
This article first appeared in the January 16-22 issue of the hard-copy Phuket Gazette newspaper.
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