BANGKOK, THAILAND – The government is getting serious about illegal land use, rolling out the Phuket model nationwide. PM Anutin Charnvirakul ordered a full review of all state land to reclaim national parks, forest reserves and public land from squatters.
Deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Periwattana said on July 30 that all relevant authorities were told to follow the Phuket model guide. The approach means checking land use in protected areas inch by inch.
Phuket becomes blueprint for Thailand land fight
The focus is on illegally issued title deeds, land held by nominees, and illegal use of state land. Checks will expand across all of Thailand to protect the country’s natural resources.
All relevant authorities were instructed to follow the guidelines of the Phuket model.
said Lalida Periwattana, deputy government spokeswoman.
Anutin orders tough crackdown
The PM, who also serves as interior minister, demands strict enforcement of the law. The review of title deeds will be retroactive.
The government also brought in the Anti-Money Laundering Office to check financial flows and assets tied to illegal land deals.
Deputy PM and environment minister take the lead
Two experienced politicians are in charge of implementation. Songsak Thongsri sets the political direction.
Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin coordinates work between the forestry department and all other agencies. Reclaimed land will become public land or forest areas again.
First success after 28 years of deadlock
The model is already showing results. Authorities reclaimed the Khao Nak Koet national forest reserve, an area disputed for nearly three decades.
Demolition of illegal structures at prominent beaches is also underway. Buildings at Nui Beach, Freedom Beach and inside Sirinat National Park encroached on state land.
Illegal hotels in the crosshairs
The government is speeding up inspections of hotels in Phuket operating without valid permits. Officials say these lodgings endanger the safety of tourists and locals.
Special focus is on encroachments on hillsides. Stairs and structures that blocked beach access and charged visitors illegal fees are being demolished fast.
Thap Lan National Park next on the list
After the actions in Phuket, attention has turned to other parts of the country. The controversial Thap Lan National Park will be cleared of illegal land use using the same method.
The government wants to enforce the principle that Thai land belongs to all Thais. Authorities are reviewing all cases in a coordinated way and taking legal action.
Public access to be restored
The measures aim to win back beaches and forests for general use. Illegal barriers and private areas on public land are being removed.
The concept is designed to sustainably secure the protection of resources and safeguard the interests of the country.
said a government spokesperson.