Kaeng Krachan wildfire remains critical as teams deployed
The Kaeng Krachan wildfire remained critical on Friday, with officials deploying additional personnel and supplies as efforts continued to contain the blaze in Kaeng Krachan National Park.
According to Mr Saknarin Yoosomboon, head of the Upper Kaeng Krachan Forest Fire Control Station, the fire is affecting the Huai Suea Kat Chang area near Ta Phan Bon Camp in Yang Nam Klat Nuea subdistrict. Conditions on the ground have required sustained firefighting operations, with teams working in challenging terrain.
From 08:00 on 17 April, a third team of 15 officials was deployed to reinforce ongoing operations. The group was fully equipped with food, drinking water and fuel to support extended work in the field. Personnel were drawn from Kaeng Krachan National Park’s wildfire suppression unit, the Upper Kaeng Krachan Forest Fire Control Station, and volunteer forest fire prevention networks from nearby communities.
Firefighting efforts intensify at Kaeng Krachan wildfire site
Firefighters have been working to bring the Kaeng Krachan wildfire under control using direct suppression techniques, alongside the construction of firebreaks along the Huai Khom ridge. Authorities reported that earlier operations by the first and second teams successfully connected firebreak lines at ridge point 1143, helping to slow the spread of the fire.
At 14:30, Mr Sukhum Jantachot, Director of the Phetchaburi Office of Natural Resources and Environment, visited the site to assess the situation, monitor progress and coordinate planning with teams on the ground.
By 16:30, the first and second firefighting teams, comprising 16 personnel, returned from the area after completing their assigned tasks. They had been operating since 14 April, focusing on controlling the fire and establishing firebreaks across several locations, including Huai Suea Kat Chang, Wang Nam Sai, Huai Phu Phlu and Ta Phan Bon Camp. A debriefing session was held following their return to review operations and assess next steps.
Officials said the situation remains under close monitoring, with further updates to be provided as conditions evolve. Authorities also called on the public to continue supporting personnel involved in the response.
Residents were urged to report any illegal activities involving natural resources, forests or wildlife, including unauthorised burning, via the Forest Protection Hotline 1362, which operates around the clock.
