Move to resolve Similan Islands row
TALKS are being held today (Oct 18, 2018) to resolve opposition to restricting the number of tourists visiting Similan islands off southern Phang Nga coast after tourist boat operators halted service for 2 day, Thai News Agency reported.
The atmosphere Ban Thap Lamu pier turned lively again yesterday after boat operators temporarily lifted their 2-day closure (Oct 15-16).
Over 1,000 tourists caught boats to Similan islands from this pier from before 7 a.m. They were mostly Chinese, Russian, French, British, Japanese, and South Koran tourists but not many Thais.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation called an advisory committee for talks after boat operators submitted a petition to Phang Nga Governor Siriphat Phatkul.
Officials of this department had imposed an restriction on the number of visitors who could go to Similan Islands, which is a national park with the corals there in healthy state and its beauty attracting both Thai and foreign visitors.
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Top and below: Tourists leaving for and arriving at Similan islands. Photos: Thai News Agency
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