Ubon ratchathani: A task force from the Royal Forest Department has conducted an inspection of the Luang Ta Sin Khit Buddhist park, following concerns about the park's land use. The park, associated with the monk Luang Ta Sin Sap Charanathammo, was examined after complaints suggested possible encroachment beyond the permitted area.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chanchai Kijsakdapap, leader of the Special Task Force for Suppressing Illegal Activities, joined officials from the Department of Forestry and the Central Investigation Bureau in inspecting the park. The site, which includes Wat Pa Bon Nam Phra In in Huai Yot Mon National Forest Reserve, had previously been granted permission for its monastic residence to use 15 rai of land in 2023. By 2025, after joining the Department of Forestry's Buddhist Park project, the park was authorized to use an additional 484 rai, 1 ngan, and 78 square wah, totaling 494 rai, 1 ngan, and 78 square wah.
Upon arrival, the officials noted the absence of the monk in question, with a park management representative facilitating the inspection. Using GPS coordinates, the team surveyed the entire area for potential construction or land encroachment, focusing on all structures, including pavilions and residences for monks and nuns.
Initial reports from the inspection indicated construction beyond the allowed area, though the extent and any violation of regulations related to the Buddhist park's designation remain undetermined. The investigation is underway, and any confirmed infractions will lead to legal proceedings.
Mr. Aswin, representing the Buddhist park at Wat Bon Nam Phra In, stated that the land was under the park's management before the formal application for its establishment. Initially, the area, comprising around 1,000 rai, was intended as a Buddhist park. A formal application was filed on September 5, 2024, to establish the park officially.
A collaborative land survey with the Forestry Department, Forest Resources Office Region 7, and local administration measured the area at 592 rai. A report documented this measurement, but regulations capped the permissible area for a Buddhist park at 500 rai. Consequently, the area was reduced to 484 rai, leading to some sections of the monastic residence appearing to exceed official boundaries. Following the adjustment, the park received its official designation in early 2025.
The park had maintained care of the area even before its official establishment, protecting it with fencing. The inspection, therefore, aims to clarify whether any new encroachment occurred or if the land use aligns with historical practices. The Buddhist park remains committed to resolving any discrepancies and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.