General
Pattaya Mayor Denies Allegations Regarding Forest Land Use for Waste and Animal Facilities
Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches has publicly refuted media reports claiming the city is seeking forest land to establish a new landfill and dog shelter.
On August 12, 2026, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches addressed recent online media reports alleging that the city government was attempting to acquire forest land for a new waste disposal site and a dog shelter. The reports also contained accusations regarding the unauthorized use of land for a golf course.
Mayor Poramase expressed concern that these reports could mislead the public. He clarified that there are no plans to establish a new landfill. Regarding the management of stray dogs, he explained that the city is currently working to address the issue systematically through sterilization and vaccination programs, as well as a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Pong Subdistrict Municipality to house strays in local foundations.
He acknowledged that current legal constraints limit the number of dogs the city can manage and restrict budget usage to food and caretaker wages. Consequently, city officials have held preliminary discussions with forestry authorities to explore potential, legally compliant locations for a more comprehensive animal welfare facility.
For residents and visitors, this clarification highlights the city's ongoing efforts to manage stray animal populations. While the Mayor has denied the specific allegations of illegal land acquisition, the long-term strategy for a permanent, large-scale animal shelter remains a work in progress. Further updates regarding the city's coordination with forestry officials and the finalization of any land-use agreements are yet to be confirmed.