Department of National Parks Addresses Criticism Over Accommodation Quality

On August 5, 2026, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) issued an official statement addressing recent comments made by Weera Teerapatranon, a member of the extraordinary committee for the 2027 fiscal budget bill. During a parliamentary discussion, Weera described his experience from a trip to a national park four years ago, labeling the quality of accommodation and services as "very poor."

According to Khaosod Online, Weera highlighted several specific grievances, including the 8:00 PM electricity cutoff, poor condition of bedding, limited water supply, and inadequate internet connectivity. He further suggested that the DNP should consider adopting private-sector management models to improve efficiency.

In its response, the DNP acknowledged these concerns and stated it is committed to accelerating operational improvements. Regarding the 8:00 PM power shutdown, the department clarified that this policy is implemented for safety reasons and to minimize light pollution that could disturb local wildlife. The DNP also noted that it is open to exploring the proposal of involving private investment to enhance park facilities.

For travelers and residents, this exchange highlights ongoing efforts to balance conservation requirements with visitor comfort. While the DNP has committed to improvements, the specific timeline for facility upgrades and the potential implementation of private-sector management models remain to be confirmed.