Wildlife sanctuary goes for double-pricing

THALANG: Khao Prataew Wildlife Sanctuary (KPWS) will begin collecting standard entrance fees of 200 baht from foreigners and 20 baht from Thais next week, the Chief of the sanctuary, Awat Nitikul, has announced. K. Awat told the Gazette that the park – which includes the Tonesai and Bangpae waterfalls – attracts about 4,000 tourists a month. Most of the foreigners are from the Netherlands, Germany, Japan and Taiwan. “Next week we will start collecting an entrance fee from visitors,” he said. He added that there would also be a charge for vehicles, depending on their size. “We will use the proceeds to improve this place by building seats and improving walkways,” he said. Seven other wildlife sanctuaries in Thailand will also start collecting fees. They are Khao Angruenai in Chachoengsao, Huai Tabtan-Huai Samran in Surin, Khao Cheeown in Chonburi, Nong Tungtong in Surat Thani, Tampratun in Uthai Thani, Tamphataphol in Phitsanulok and Bueng Chawark in Suphan Buri. Visitor numbers are expected to fall once the fees are introduced.