Koh Samui overwhelmed: Tourists threaten island's survival
The Thai paradise is struggling with an enormous influx of tourists. Each day, 10,000 people visit the island, raising serious environmental concerns. Dr. Kannapa Pongponrat Chieochan from Thammasat University notes that Koh Samui's tourism is expanding at an unsustainable pace, lacking a clear and coordinated development plan. Will this tropical gem withstand such pressure and retain its beauty?
Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand, has been attracting lovers of paradisiacal beaches, green hills, and tropical climates for years. However, this popular tourist destination is increasingly feeling the effects of its fame.
Each day, an average of 10,000 people visit Koh Samui, which is becoming a serious challenge – both for the local community and for the natural environment. Experts are sounding the alarm: the tourism boom may bring more harm than benefits unless concrete actions are taken.
Koh Samui under pressure: Ecology versus tourism
In recent months, Koh Samui has gained even more fame, especially after the premiere of the third series of the hit programme "White Lotus," partially set on the island.
The result? A huge increase in interest – the number of international visitors has risen by 28% compared to last year. Although this is a reason for joy for the hotel and restaurant industry, local authorities and environmentalists view the situation with growing concern.
The main issue is the overload of local infrastructure. The island is not prepared for such a large burden – the water and sewage management system is barely keeping up with the needs of residents and visitors. Additionally, there is the issue of waste – its volume has increased drastically and the capabilities for processing it are limited.
Systems that can't keep up
Dr. Kannapa Pongponrat Chieochan from Thammasat University points out that the tourism development of Koh Samui is happening too quickly and without a coherent strategy. In her opinion, the island needs a sustainable management plan that considers both the protection of nature and economic needs.
Although the Thai government previously introduced measures to protect the environment – like the "Save Water, Save Samui" campaign in 2014 or the Marine Resources Management Act of 2015 – effective enforcement remains an issue.
There are also ambitious plans for the future. A cruise terminal is to be built by 2029, and the airport will undergo expansion. The construction of a second water pipeline has also been announced. Nevertheless, experts warn that without real support for local ecological initiatives and greater emphasis on public education, these changes may prove insufficient.
Uncertain future
Koh Samui faces a choice today: can tourism development be reconciled with environmental protection? Everything points to the need for quick action – not only by authorities but also by tourists themselves. Conscious travel choices, resource conservation, avoiding plastic, and supporting local initiatives are just some of the steps each of us can take.
If you dream of visiting Koh Samui, remember that your stay leaves a mark – not just on Instagram, but also on the local ecosystem. And the future of this beautiful island depends on how significant that mark will be.
Source: Express.co.uk
