Plans aim to reduce human-elephant conflict in Hua Hin
Provincial authorities are considering drones, improved warning systems and closer coordination between agencies to reduce human-elephant conflict in Hua Hin after 189 residents were affected between 2023 and 2026.
Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor Sittichai Sawatsan chaired a meeting on 3 August at the Nong Phlap Subdistrict Administrative Organisation office to discuss the growing impact of wild elephants on communities and agricultural land.
Those attending included Dr Bussakorn Sawatsan, president of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Red Cross Chapter; Deputy Governor Phanphat Sitthisak; Hua Hin District Chief Supachai Khrutdam; and representatives of government agencies and local administrative organisations.
The meeting focused on Huai Sat Yai subdistrict, which borders Kaeng Krachan National Park and covers about 185,625 rai, or 297 square kilometres. The area has 11 villages and more than 7,615 residents across 3,002 households, many of whom rely on agriculture and livestock farming.
Officials said elephants had increasingly left the forest to search for food in communities and farmland. Declining natural food sources, expanding agricultural areas and dry-season conditions were identified as contributing factors.
Drones considered for elephant monitoring
Monitoring figures showed that 81 people were affected by wild elephants in 2023, followed by 37 in 2024, 66 in 2025 and five so far in 2026.
Local administrative organisations have provided more than 357,913 baht in assistance to 90 people.
Officials discussed strengthening elephant monitoring and public warning systems, protecting lives and property, and improving cooperation between relevant agencies. Drones could also be used to locate and monitor elephants more effectively.
The meeting also reviewed obstacles faced by local teams and progress in compensating those affected. Authorities said the aim was to develop practical measures that protect residents and farms while supporting wildlife conservation.
