Forest fire in Thailand threatens Asia’s largest bird park
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On Jan 28, firefighters cut firebreaks behind the park and controlled the blaze with high-pressure water hoses.
PHOTO: THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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Over 20 fire trucks battled to save Chainat Bird Park from a blaze engulfing Khao Plong mountain in Mueang district, Chai Nat province, 200km north of Bangkok, on Jan 28.
The fire erupted on the morning of Jan 27 and spread towards the park’s water park and Bird Egg Museum that night, said Mr Jitthana Yingthaweelapa, president of Chainat Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO).
Touted as Asia’s largest aviary and a major attraction in the central province, Chainat Bird Park is home to over 100 bird species.
On Jan 28, firefighters cut firebreaks on the hill behind the park while controlling the blaze with high-pressure water hoses, said Mr Jira Chukaew, PAO head of tourism promotion.
Local mayor Jirasak Charoensin reported that firefighters expect the blaze to be completely extinguished by the night of Jan 28.
Chai Nat province’s governor Natee Montriwat urged the public to assist the authorities in tackling forest fires and air pollution by enforcing the law against agricultural burning and using hotspot data to boost operational efficiency.
The military is joining local emergency services in fighting forest fires whenever hotspots are found, he said.
Police and other agencies have been tasked with boosting public awareness to prevent fires and air pollution, as well as punishing those caught lighting fires, he added. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
