On May 4, 2025, authorities from the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park reported significant developments in their ongoing efforts to address the issues surrounding the local monkey population and construction projects that threaten the park's integrity. These initiatives aim to balance the needs of wildlife conservation with the demands of tourism, ensuring a sustainable approach to both.
In a recent announcement, officials confirmed that they have begun providing food to monkeys within the park to alleviate concerns about food shortages exacerbated by tourism activities. This measure comes in response to increased reports of monkeys causing disturbances and stealing food from visitors. Authorities are actively inspecting monkey groups to manage their behavior, aiming to enhance both tourist safety and satisfaction.
"We are working diligently to ensure that our wildlife remains healthy while also protecting the interests of our visitors," said a spokesperson for the park. The authorities are collaborating with relevant agencies to strike a balance between conservation efforts and tourism management, addressing the growing concerns raised by both local residents and tourists alike.
Meanwhile, the Special Case Investigation Division (DSI) has expanded its investigation into construction projects within the Ayutthaya Historical Park, focusing on instances that may have violated historical preservation laws. The DSI aims to curb the influence of powerful figures involved in these projects, which have raised alarms regarding their potential impact on both historical sites and tourism.
Officials from the DSI are currently reviewing past construction projects to ensure compliance with regulations and to prevent any further damage to the park’s cultural heritage. This investigation involves examining 38 specific projects that have been flagged for scrutiny, with the goal of determining the extent of the damage and identifying those responsible.
Somros Phimanmas, an architectural expert involved in the investigation, emphasized the importance of thorough inspections. He noted that the authorities are seeking expert opinions to assess the integrity of the structures and their compliance with safety standards. "We must ensure that all construction within the park adheres to the highest standards to protect our cultural heritage," he stated.
In addition to the construction concerns, the investigation into the recent collapse of the Office of the Auditor General building remains ongoing. The DSI reported that they have collected substantial evidence, including samples of concrete and steel from the site, which will be analyzed to determine the reasons behind the structural failure.
The progress of this investigation has been notable, with over 80% of witness testimonies already gathered. Authorities have been careful to collect all relevant evidence, including structural samples, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident. However, initial findings have not yet provided conclusive insights about whether the construction met the required safety standards.
"We are waiting for additional results from various tests, including those related to the structural integrity of the materials used," said a DSI official. They are also investigating claims that signatures of engineers involved in the project were forged, which could point to deeper issues within the construction oversight process.
As the investigation progresses, engineers and experts have raised concerns about the methods used for collecting samples from the collapsed building. Critics have suggested that the sampling process has not been comprehensive enough, potentially overlooking critical evidence that could explain the collapse. They advocate for a more thorough approach to ensure that all relevant factors are considered.
"It's crucial that we gather samples from various locations to understand the full picture of what went wrong," said Chulee Janjeua, another architectural expert involved in the case. He highlighted the need for a detailed analysis of both intact and damaged materials to ascertain their properties and compliance with safety standards.
The DSI's investigation not only aims to address the immediate concerns surrounding the recent building collapse but also seeks to establish a framework for preventing future incidents. By enhancing collaboration with relevant agencies and improving oversight of construction practices, officials hope to protect Ayutthaya's historical sites from further harm.
In light of these developments, the DSI is committed to ensuring that all construction projects within the park adhere to strict regulations designed to preserve its cultural heritage. Officials are optimistic that their efforts will lead to improved practices and greater accountability among those involved in construction and tourism within Ayutthaya.
As the park continues to attract visitors from around the world, maintaining the delicate balance between conservation and tourism will be critical to its future. Authorities urge the public to report any inappropriate behavior related to wildlife or construction practices, emphasizing the role of the community in preserving Ayutthaya’s rich history and natural environment.
In summary, the recent initiatives by both the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park and the DSI highlight a concerted effort to address pressing issues related to wildlife management and construction oversight. As these investigations unfold, they promise to shape the future of tourism and conservation in this historic region.
