Phuket palm plantation ‘encroaches on mangroves’

PHUKET: The jury is still out on whether the palm plantation located in Moo 9 of Baan Ao Kung village of Tambon Paklok has encroached on the area’s natural mangrove forests or not.

Friday 14 October 2011, 05:58PM

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Leader of Moo 9 Baan Ao Kung village Chet Panthip and local residents have repeatedly complained to Phuket Vice Governor Somkiat Sangkaosuttirak that Siw-eab Wuttithammaporn’s land is encroaching on natural mangrove forest.

Mr Chet said that a 30 rai parcel of land was converted into a palm plantation by Ms Siw-eab in 2009.

“I have repeatedly discussed the issue with Ms Siw-eab, but every time she dismisses our complaints, and says that this land belongs to her,” says Mr Chet.

V/Gov Somkiat, who inspected the land on Tuesday (October 11) has instructed the Phuket Provincial Land Office of Thalang district to establish the size and title of Ms Siw-eab’s land.

If it is proved that it is encroaching on the mangrove forest, the government will take ownership. It is anticipated the process will be completed by January.

“Though the owner has a land title, the total land area covered by it has to be verified. The land officer will start checking next month after the rainy season has ended,” says Phuket V/Gov Somkiat.