CHIANG MAI – Representatives from the Ban Mong Doi Pui community in Chiang Mai have issued a public apology. This follows widespread outrage after a volunteer group illegally chopped down several wild Himalayan cherry trees. The trees, known locally as Thai sakura, were located inside the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
The incident occurred between October 9 and October 13, sparking anger across social media. Residents were especially upset because the trees held deep sentimental value. They were planted two decades ago to honor King Rama IX during his royal visits to the area.
Key Takeaways
- Volunteers cut down 15 trees: The group felled 11 wild Himalayan cherry trees while claiming to do landscape work.
- Community leaders apologize: Local officials expressed regret for the lack of oversight and promised to restore the area.
- Legal action underway: Authorities have identified seven suspects and are actively searching for the person who ordered the cutting.
A Misunderstanding Leads to Destruction
According to park officials, the volunteer group initially asked for verbal permission to tidy up the landscape. Authorities assumed they would only be pulling weeds and cleaning the grounds. No one expected them to bring down fully grown trees.
By the time officials realized what was happening, 15 trees had been cut into 46 logs. This included 11 prized cherry trees. These pink blossoms are a major tourist draw and a symbol of pride for Chiang Mai residents.
Methaphan Phuchakrisadapha, the Kamnan of Suthep sub-district, admitted that local oversight was too loose. He noted that villagers know the land belongs to the national park. Any forestry work must have strict official approval before starting.
Speaking on behalf of the Doi Pui community, Methaphan offered a sincere apology to the public. He stressed that the community is ready to cooperate fully with authorities to fix the damage and prevent future mistakes.
Strict Legal Action and Future Recovery
In a recent press briefing, Kritsayam Kongsatree, director of the Protected Area Regional Office 16, confirmed the park’s stance. He stated that the law will be applied strictly and fairly. The park will not let political influence interfere with the investigation
Police have already identified seven people involved in the actual cutting. Investigators are now working to find out who gave the final order. Even if villagers planted the trees themselves years ago, chopping them down inside a national park is a serious crime.
Meanwhile, Suthep Mayor Surachet Takamma addressed photos showing people in municipal vests at the scene. He clarified that the city is reviewing the evidence closely. However, he promised that no official city workers were involved in the unauthorized felling.
The municipality is now shifting its focus toward recovery. Doi Pui relies heavily on tourism, and these cherry blossoms are a massive economic driver during the winter months. Officials are urging visitors to keep coming to experience the local culture.
While the community works to replant and heal the damaged landscape, it will certainly take time. However, local leaders remain fully committed to restoring the historic beauty of this beloved region.
