North Thailand enforces alcohol ban in major national parks

Picture courtesy of Thailand Tourism Directory

A ban on alcohol consumption has been implemented in seven prime national parks across North Thailand to curb littering and maintain a tranquil environment for visitors. The ban, which applies to all visitors, was put into effect in 2021 by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).

According to Songkran Pakchokdee, the director of StopDrink Network, an NGO that campaigns against alcohol consumption, the enforcement needs to be stricter during the cold season. This period typically sees a surge in tourism, with the parks becoming a favourite destination, said Songkran.

“The alcohol ban is not only aimed at protecting the rights of visitors who would prefer to enjoy the natural beauty than drink or have to mix with rowdy elements but also the park from rubbish left behind by drunk…