Coral reefs in Maya bay begin to recover

KRABI, Sept 1 (TNA) - Coral reefs in Thailand's Maya Bay begin to recover as the famous tourist spot has been closed for three months since June. Maya Bay is a part of Had Nopparat Tara- Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi, appearing in Hollywood hit “The Beach.” The National Park Department decided to temporarily close Maya Bay for rehabilitation of ecological conditions decayed by excessive tourist activities. Officials have since restored heavily-damaged coral reefs at the Bay with transplanting operation. Suppapon Prempri, head of the Marine National Parks Operation Centre 3 based in Trang, said the coral propagation method used in the operation had showed good result; regenerating coral reefs in shallow waters of the beach. However, more time was needed for the healing process, she said. On land, national park officials have planted tree off the white sandy beach in order to prevent further soil erosion. During the closure, no boats are allowed to enter the bay but to dock at a floating pier in nearby Loh Sama Bay. When the Maya Bay is reopened in October, a limited number of tourists will access the Bay through this new pier. Authorities will use e-ticket system for admission which will be installed in September, in time for the next high-season. (TNA)