Transport
Lamphun Conservationists Petition to Save Century-Old Trees During Highway Expansion
A coalition of citizens and private sector representatives has petitioned the Governor of Lamphun to halt the felling of over a thousand ancient trees slated for removal during the Ban Hong-Li highway expansion project.
On August 11, 2026, a network of conservationists from Lamphun and Chiang Mai, alongside private sector partners, submitted a formal request to the Governor of Lamphun province. The petition seeks to modify the current construction contract for the Ban Hong-Li highway expansion, specifically requesting an immediate halt to the planned felling of more than 1,000 century-old trees located along the route.
According to Prachachat Business, the group is advocating for the trees to be excavated and relocated rather than destroyed, aiming to preserve the community's green space and ecological heritage. For residents and travelers, this project is significant as it highlights the ongoing tension between infrastructure development and environmental preservation in Northern Thailand. The outcome of this petition could influence the aesthetic and environmental character of the popular route between Ban Hong and Li.
As of now, it remains to be confirmed whether the provincial authorities will agree to amend the construction contract or adopt the proposed relocation method. The public is currently awaiting a formal response from the Governor’s office regarding the feasibility of these conservation demands.