Cable car project slated for 2027

Phu Kradueng project raised hackles

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

The Tourism and Sports Ministry insists the controversial Phu Kradueng cable car project will be completed by 2027, maintaining the maximum capacity at 5,000 people per day set by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

The cable car project has been debated by the government and conservationists for more than four decades, with the latter concerned the economic gain would not compensate for the impact on nature from an uptick in visitors.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the long-delayed project would be completed during his term, and it has passed the hearing process with several stakeholders.

A budget of 28 million baht was approved to study and design the project, but the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Dasta) expects to spend only 25.4 million for this phase, said Mr Sorawong.