Thai Ministry Orders Investigation into Peatland Encroachment in Nakhon Si Thammarat

On August 20, 2026, Suchart Chomklin, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, directed the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to investigate illegal land occupation in the Khuan Kreng peat swamp forest, located in Cha-uat District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. This directive follows a series of wildfires that occurred between August 13 and 17, 2026, which damaged approximately 1,527 rai of forest land.

According to Khaosod Online, authorities identified three new plots totaling 140 rai that had been encroached upon for palm oil cultivation. The Ministry is currently gathering evidence to prosecute those responsible for the fires and the illegal land seizure. While officials have successfully contained the fires and report no new hotspots, the Ministry has mandated 24-hour patrols to prevent further encroachment and ensure the protection of the peatland ecosystem.

For residents and visitors, this situation highlights ongoing efforts to preserve protected areas from industrial exploitation. While the immediate fire threat has subsided, the area remains under strict surveillance. It remains to be confirmed whether the investigation will lead to the identification of specific corporate entities behind the land clearing or if further illegal plots will be discovered during the ongoing site inspections.