Law
Minister Orders Investigation into Illegal Encroachment at Khuan Kreng Peat Swamp
Thailand's Minister of Natural Resources and Environment has directed authorities to investigate illegal land clearing and palm oil cultivation in the Khuan Kreng peat swamp forest.
On August 20, 2026, Thai Post reported that Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, issued an urgent directive to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The order mandates an immediate investigation into the Khuan Kreng peat swamp forest area.
According to the report, the Ministry is targeting groups suspected of illegally burning forest land to clear space for unauthorized palm oil plantations. The directive aims to reclaim these protected areas from private interests that have allegedly encroached upon the land.
For residents and travelers in the region, this development highlights ongoing efforts to protect Thailand's sensitive peat swamp ecosystems from industrial exploitation. While the government has initiated this crackdown, the full extent of the encroachment and the specific timeline for the reclamation process remain to be confirmed by the Department of National Parks. Visitors to the area should be aware that enforcement operations may be underway, and local authorities may increase monitoring of forest boundaries. Further updates regarding the success of these operations and any potential impact on access to surrounding areas will depend on future reports from the Ministry.