Vaster than ancient Ayutthaya and perhaps just as important in its day, Si Thep in Phetchabun has begun sharing its secrets.

it also sits on an oil field ...

Archaeology experts suggest the Fine Arts Department declare restrictive zoning as soon as possible so that the national heritage law can be invoked to protect the site.
Archaeology experts suggest the Fine Arts Department declare restrictive zoning as soon as possible so that the national heritage law can be invoked to protect the site. © Nation/Prasert Thepsri

With recognition as a Unesco World Heritage site possibly hanging in the balance, the government’s Fine Arts Department has begun delineating a buffer zone at Si Thep Historical Park in Phetchabun to try and protect it from proposed oil drilling.

ECO Orient Resources (Thailand) is eyeing a drill site just hundreds of metres from a pair of historically important stupas unearthed in recent years in an area of the park called Khao Khlang Nok. 

Public hearings are being held and an Environment Impact Assessment will be conducted, but opposition is already simmering among residents and archaeologists.

Anandha Chuchoti, director-general of the Fine Arts Department, visited the site last weekend and ordered his regional office to draft a five-year reform plan for the park’s management.

It will include expansion of the designated conservation area to include Khao Khlang Nok and preparations to register the recently discovered ruins for World Heritage site status.

Though oil drilling is on hold amid objections from the department and the public, Anandha said moves to protect Si Thep from heavy industry and mining projects must be stepped up.

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