Amidst peak tourist season in Thailand, Pling Island and the surrounding coral reefs in Sirinart National Park, Phuket, were temporarily closed on May 9 to address widespread coral bleaching. This pause in tourism allows the coral reefs to recover naturally, undisturbed by human activity.
What is coral bleaching, you ask? The natural phenomenon occurs due to rising ocean temperatures and ultraviolet radiation, causing coral reefs to expel algae living within them. Bleaching of corals can stunt their growth, impact reproduction, and harm species that depend on coral ecosystems. Fortunately, corals can recover from bleaching over time, provided ocean conditions return to normal.
Thailand’s coral reef: Why Pling Island had to shut shop
Pling Island and the coral reefs around Sirinart National Park in Phuket will be temporarily closed due to extensive coral bleaching caused by rising seawater temperatures.https://t.co/xxD9Mco3pO#ThaiPBSWorld #CoralReef #Phuket pic.twitter.com/RDPLS6aJv5
— Thai PBS World (@ThaiPBSWorld) May 8, 2024
Recent scorching temperatures across Thailand and Asia caused a rise in seawater temperatures, impacting the health of the coral reefs in Pling Island. In response, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) took decisive action by announcing a temporary closure of the island and surrounding reefs in Sirinart National Park, Phuket.
In addition to the Pling Island, the DNP is also closely observing other national parks, including Koh Chang, Koh Samet, Chumphon, Koh Surin, Phang Nga Bay, the Phi Phi islands, and Lanta, for similar coral bleaching effects.
Temporary closure of parks is a common practice in Thailand. In 2018, Maya Bay was shut for four months to allow for the recovery and restoration of its coral beds and marine life.
Beyond coral gems: Best things to do in Thailand
Don’t let the temporary closure of Pling Island dampen the spirit of your Thailand explorations, for the country promises to indulge you with its coast, culture, and culinary marvels. When in Thailand, explore Chiang Mai’s temple circuit, go diving at Koh Phi Phi, sunbathe in Krabi, delve into the history of Sukhothai, go partying in Bangkok, and consider national park-hopping through the country.
(Feature Image Credit: Casper1774 Studio/Shutterstock)
Related: Krabi Vs Phuket: Shining Light On The Contrasting Traits Of Two Thai Gems
Written By
Yashita Vashishth
Senior Digital Writer – Growth, Travel
Writer by day, reader by night, Yashita has a flair for all things travel, wellness and food. She has previously worked at Condé Nast India and Times Internet. When not working, you can catch her binge-reading the latest thriller on the block, re-watching Friends, trying a new recipe or hosting her friends.
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