Illegal logging at Thai dam site

Mon, 20 Oct 1997, 00:00 WIB | Source: DPA

BANGKOK (DPA): Illegal logging is widespread in a national
park, 600 kilometers north of Bangkok, where the construction of
a new controversial dam is under consideration, the English-
language Bangkok Post reported yesterday.

While visiting Mae Yom National Park last week Suphavit
Piamphongsant, inspector general with the Environment Ministry,
said he saw more than 100 workers with 30 elephants hauling
golden teak logs in the park.

Forestry officials appeared unconcerned or unwilling to stop
the logging, he added.

The National Environment Board must give its approval to the
planned construction of the new dam which would flood 60 square
kilometers of parkland. A public hearing concerning the dam is
scheduled for early next year.

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