The National Park Office earned 2 billion baht in revenue over the past ten months, its director announced yesterday, already surpassing its target for the 2024 fiscal year, which ends in September.
National Park Office director Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn said the total revenue was expected to exceed 2.15 billion baht in the remaining 52 days, or until Sept 30.
The target for the 2024 fiscal year was originally set at 2 billion baht, he said.
The office had received 1.46 billion baht in revenues last year and 710 million baht in 2022, according to him.
Mr Chaiwat said the success is attributed to the flexibility in appointing people who are hard-working, honest and determined to protect the country's natural resources as national park chiefs.
The top three national parks with the highest revenues are Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi in Krabi, Mu Ko Similan in Phangnga, and Khao Leam Ya-Mu Ko Samet in Rayong. Their revenues were reported at 574 million baht, 243 million baht and 148 million baht, respectively.
Other high-income national parks are Ao Phang Nga in Phangnga; Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai; Khao Yai in Prachin Buri and Nakhon Ratchasima; Erawan in Kanchanaburi; Khao Sok and Mu Koh Ang Thong in Surat Thani; and Tarutao in Satun.
Mr Chaiwat explained that this year's earnings have been allocated for the national parks' maintenance and to increase efficiency in park management.
This, he said, includes boosting forest protection, reforming the patrol system, enhancing wildfire and pollution controls, setting up rapid responders teams to handle wild elephants, and supporting services dedicated for tourists.
