Illegal logging at Thai dam site

Mon, 20 Oct 1997 | 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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