A cargo vessel ran aground on 1 June on a coral reef in Ao Jak Bay, within Thailand’s Mu Koh Surin National Park, raising serious environmental concerns.
The vessel, reportedly from Myanmar, has caused significant damage to the reef with the initial assessment indicating around 150 square metres affected and six coral species impacted. Furthermore, Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is seeking 12 million baht (approximately $366,600) in damages from the ship’s owner.
The DNP’s Director-General confirmed that debris, including cardboard boxes, rubber hoses, fabric scraps, tires and other waste materials, has been scattered across the reef. The vessel’s cargo was also carrying 3,000 cement bags, which also pose an environmental risk if they enter the sea.
Authorities suspect the ship may have been attempting to avoid Myanmar officials, though this has not been confirmed.
As reported, recovery efforts are being hindered by ongoing monsoon conditions and the affected areas will remain temporarily closed to support natural reef recovery.
Multiple Thai agencies are also working together to contain environmental damage.
