Public Opposition Raised Against Kaeng Krachan Trail Run
Citizens have submitted a formal petition to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to oppose the upcoming 'Wild Race @ Kaeng Krachan' event, citing concerns over wildlife disturbance.
On October 15, 2026, a group of concerned citizens submitted a formal petition to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in Bangkok, calling for the cancellation of the 'Wild Race @ Kaeng Krachan World Heritage' trail running event. The race, scheduled for November 1, 2026, in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi, features distances ranging from 5 km to 33 km.
Organized by the National Park Association and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the event aims to raise funds for forest ranger welfare. However, petitioners expressed significant concerns regarding the potential impact on the World Heritage site. Key issues raised include the risk of waste accumulation, environmental contamination, and the potential for large crowds to disrupt the natural behavior of local wildlife.
In response, the National Park Association maintains that the race route utilizes existing paths already used for park management and transit, asserting that the event will not negatively impact the ecosystem. Niphon Jamnongsirisak, representing the Ministry, received the petition to review these concerns. For travelers and residents, this highlights ongoing tensions between promoting tourism in protected areas and environmental conservation. It remains to be confirmed whether the Ministry will impose any restrictions or changes to the event format following this review.
