The removal of three more resorts began on Phu Thap Boek with no resistance from the owners on Wednesday morning, as the operation to clear all illegally built hotels from the popular mountain continued.
About 300 officials drawn from the district office, national park, army and police stations in Lom Kao district began tearing down Ban Phu Sai Mok, Ava Phu Thap Boek and Small Ville after the deadline for their removal by the owners expired on Sunday.
They were separated into three teams, using hand-held equipment to demolish each of the premises at the same time. The owners fully cooperated with the authorities.
Lom Kao district chief Somlak Noknoiwong expected the removal of Ava Phu Thap Boek and Smalle Ville to be completed in one day. Ban Phu Sai Mok comprises five firmly built concrete structures that need to be flattened by heavy equipment. Its removal was expected to be completed on Thursday.
Prior to Wednesday, 19 resorts had been removed from the scenic mountain in the province under an operation ordered by the National Council for Peace and Order. The land on Phu Thap Boek was allocated to Hmong people for farming.
Many instead leased their land to outsiders who built tourist accommodation, mostly small resorts, as the scenic area became popular with tourists.
There are 13 more small hotels slated for demolition on Phu Thap Boek, but authorities have not yet obtained court orders for their removal.
Next on the resort demolition list is Phu Nap Dao, whose owner will soon receive notice to pull it down within 30 days, according to the district chief.