LOEI, Thailand – Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei province welcomed back hundreds of eager hikers on Dec 23, marking the reopening of the popular mountain trail following a fatal elephant encounter earlier this month.
Despite the recent tragedy, approximately 300 tourists arrived at the park’s entrance as early as 7 a.m. to begin their ascent. All visitors were required to attend a safety briefing before starting their trek.
On December 12, a 49-year-old female tourist was fatally attacked by an elephant, prompting the park’s immediate closure. While many visitors expressed some concern about the reopening, they also expressed confidence in the park’s safety measures.
Veera Khunchaiyarak, deputy director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, led the ceremonial bell-ringing to officially commence the hiking season. He emphasized the park’s commitment to visitor safety, highlighting increased patrols, emergency response teams, and elephant deterrents.
Hikers were advised to travel in groups of at least three and to familiarize themselves with the park’s trails. As a precautionary measure, Pha Nok Aen, the area where the fatal attack occurred, remains closed to the public. However, other popular viewpoints, such as Pha Mak Duk and Pha Lom Sak, are open and safe for visitors. (TNA)
