Cha-am wildfires prompt urgent firefighting response
Authorities battle wildfires in Cha-am as hotspots detected across Phetchaburi
Authorities are battling wildfires in Cha-am after 16 hotspots were detected across parts of Phetchaburi province, prompting a coordinated response from multiple agencies.
According to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the hotspots were identified on 15 April within areas earmarked for the proposed Ban Rong Non-Hunting Area. The fires were spread across Khao Krapuk and Khao Yai subdistricts in Cha-am district, as well as Tha Mai Ruak in Tha Yang district.
Mr Patchara Sapcharoen, head of the Huai Krapong Forest Fire Control Station, said officials had already been deployed on 14 April to tackle wildfires in affected areas, working alongside local authorities and fire watch units. Firebreaks were established in an initial attempt to contain the spread.
Firefighting efforts continue as terrain hampers control
However, fresh hotspots were reported in the early hours of 15 April, forcing teams to withdraw from previously controlled areas and redeploy to new locations. Officers were assigned to secure key positions and bring the fires under control as quickly as possible.
Authorities said 14 of the 16 hotspots have now been contained, with efforts continuing at the remaining two sites. The wildfire response in Cha-am has been complicated by steep terrain and dense vegetation, including grassland and bamboo forest, which have intensified the flames and made access more difficult.
Officials added that teams have been working continuously, both day and night, including throughout the Songkran holiday period, in order to control the situation.
Residents have been urged to support frontline personnel and report any suspected illegal burning or activities affecting natural resources. Reports can be made via the Forest Protection Hotline on 1362, which operates 24 hours a day.
