Major tourist alert: National parks drop e-ticketing system

The National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department (DNP) has pulled the plug on e-ticketing for six of Thailand‘s prized national parks, sparking outrage and concerns as the tourist high season kicks off.

The decision to suspend e-ticketing for tourists visiting six national parks in Thailand has triggered a storm of criticism, with many deeming it untimely and poorly planned. As December marks the beginning of the tourism high season, both locals and international visitors are left in the lurch, struggling to navigate their trips without the once-convenient e-ticketing system.

Expressing frustration, a Facebook commentator voiced concerns about the lack of warning regarding the abrupt suspension of e-ticketing. Despite assurances from the department of refunds for those who’ve already paid through the system, the move has left both local and foreign tourists grappling with the challenge of planning their national park excursions without the prior convenience of e-ticketing.

Initially introduced as a pilot project in January for six national parks—Phang Nga, Mu Koh Similan, Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi, Khao Yai, Doi Inthanon, and Erawan—the e-ticketing system’s sudden suspension has raised eyebrows. The department attributes the decision to the conclusion of the pilot project, which lasted only a year, but critics argue that planning for the new system should have started well before the contract expiration.

In an unexpected twist, the department claims officials in national parks faced challenges with mobile phone and internet signals, hindering their ability to validate QR codes and e-tickets. However, sceptical Facebook users questioned this explanation, stating that signals at renowned parks like Khao Yai and Doi Inthanon have proven reliable enough, reported Thai PBS World.

As the e-ticketing system takes a backseat, concerns over potential corruption loom large. With no monitoring system in place, fears arise about the unchecked influx of tourists and the cash transactions at the entrance of Thailand’s national parks, leaving many netizens worried about the consequences of this sudden change.