Nakhon ratchasima: Plai Duen, Plai Biang Lek, and Plai Wan Mai, wild elephants from Khao Yai National Park, recently invaded a barbecue restaurant, a resort, and a fruit orchard in Tambon Mu Si, Amphoe Pak Chong, prompting officials to take action. The elephants were successfully pushed back into the national park by a coordinated effort.

According to Thai News Agency, the incident was captured in a video clip shared on social media by the Khao Yai Wildlife and Environment Conservation Group, the Khao Yai Elephant Lovers Page, and the Khao Yai Here Page. The footage showed the elephants rummaging through bags and garbage containers at the sites in Ban Mai Samakkhi, Village No. 2, and Ban Rai Phatthana, Village No. 6. Park officials, along with conservation groups, worked together to guide the elephants away to prevent damage to public property.

Phra Ajarn Kampanat Sukhethito, abbot of Wat Mu Si and chairman of the Khao Yai Wildlife and Environment Conservation Group, explained that these elephants frequently leave the national park in search of food during the evenings. The conservation groups have collaborated with Khao Yai National Park officials to establish monitoring guidelines to prevent damage to local properties and ensure the elephants return safely to the park. Additionally, signs and traffic lights have been installed along Thanarat Road, particularly at km 14-15, near Ban Mai Samakkhi and Ban Rai Phatthana, where elephants often cross, to alert drivers and avoid potential accidents. The conservation group emphasizes the importance of peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife, advocating for non-violent measures in managing wild animal interactions.