KANCHANABURI: Authorities in Sangkhla Buri district are reorganising the floating rafts surrounding the Mon Bridge following a multi-agency agreement aimed at restoring views of the landmark and upgrading management of the popular tourist attraction.
District chief Suriyasak Muean-uam chaired a meeting with 16 agencies — including Khao Laem National Park, Wang Ka municipality, security forces and community leaders — to follow up on an inspection by the Ombudsman’s chief inspector.
The meeting agreed in principle to zone the waterway. The northern side of Uttamanusorn Bridge, also known as Mon Bridge, will be an open zone where residential and permanently moored rafts are banned. Existing rafts in this section will be moved south of the bridge or around the river bend, where they can be grouped for easier oversight, Mr Suriyasak said.
Authorities will initially prioritise 14 traditional raft operators and residents whose details were recorded in prior surveys. Operators who refuse to cooperate, violate the new layout, or occupy spaces unlawfully will face strict legal enforcement.
Officials also stressed the need for proper wastewater and sanitation systems in the regrouped zones to prevent pollution, curb the spread of disease and boost safety. Further public hearings and stakeholder consultations will be held before finalising the zoning and enforcement measures, Mr Suriyasak added.