Bangkok (NNT/VNA) – Thailand’s famous Maya Bay is to remain closed after it wasfound that a closure lasting from June 1 to September 30 of this yearwas insufficient for the recovery of its eco-system. 

DeputyDirector General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife andPlants (DNP) Jongklai Worapongsathorn and Director of the DNP’s Officeof National Parks Songtham Suksawang have inspected the rehabilitationof coral reefs in Maya Bay and the general condition of Hat NopparatThara-Koh Phi Phi National Park in Krabi province, following anindefinite extension to their closures. 

Jongklaiindicated that despite the four month closure of the nature sites theyhave seen only limited rehabilitation. He said a closure of one to threeyears is now being studied due to the critical nature of the bay’seco-system. The Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment hassuggested that tourists to the area be dispersed to other destinationsto allow it to fully recover. 

Theclosure of the national park has been well-received by internationalenvironmental groups, which have also agreed with the extension. 

Businessoperators in the area however have expressed concerns that theindefinite closure will have an impact on tourism as many visitors havebooked visits a year in advance. Representative of the area’s businessesAmarit Siripornjutakul, suggested that the park be opened for the finalfive months of this tourism season before an extensive closure. 

Songthamnoted that the national park had not been closed for recuperation inthe 20 years prior to June of this year and that the growth of tourismto the area has severely impacted its condition, endangering itseco-system.-NNT/VNA