Vientiane authorities are intensifying efforts to re-designate the Phou Phanang National Conservation Area to improve its management and prevent land encroachment.
The Vientiane Department of Natural Resources and Environment unveiled this initiative during a recent session of the Vientiane People’s Council. The plan involves collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to create a detailed map of the area. This effort aims to collect data on land encroachment and reservation to improve the administration of the area.
The Phou Phanang National Conservation Area spans 70,000 hectares, primarily located in Vientiane Capital. This includes 3,500 hectares in the Sikhottabong district, 23,800 hectares in the Naxaythong district, and 24,500 hectares in the Sangthong district, totaling 52,000 hectares.
According to the report, efforts to mark the park’s boundaries began in 1993 but faced challenges due to unclear coordinates and overlaps with residential and agricultural areas. Between 1993 and 2011, attempts to redefine protected forest boundaries continued, but discrepancies in marker placements complicated monitoring and evaluation.
In early 2024, Vientiane authorities established a specialized committee led by the chairman of the Vientiane State Inspection Agency, along with the mayor and other officials, to conduct inspections and gather information to prevent encroachment within this conservation area.
Currently, the data collection process is ongoing, utilizing accurate methods to clearly define the boundaries of protected forest areas. This information will be compiled into a detailed report for the government.
Additionally, the committee plans to raise public awareness by sharing relevant legislation and emphasizing the value of forests, as well as the consequences of forest destruction for local residents. Meanwhile, they will enforce legal measures against violators to ensure accountability.
