Banglamung, Chonburi – A fierce forest fire erupted at 9:30 p.m. on January 15th, 2025, along a mountain range in Village 4 in the Pong Subdistrict of Banglamung District in Chonburi Province, to the east of Pattaya. The blaze, which has spread extensively, threatens a nearby monastery, prompting urgent action from local authorities and community members.
Emergency services, including fire trucks, have been dispatched to the scene to combat the fire, which shows no signs of abating. Local officials are working diligently to prevent the fire from reaching the monastery, with disciples and villagers assisting by clearing leaves and grass to create a firebreak around the holy site.
Despite these efforts, firefighters have yet to gain control over the fire, which has not directly impacted homes but has led to significant smoke affecting nearby residents. “We see this kind of fire every year, but this one has come earlier than usual,” said a local villager. The origin of the fire remains under investigation, with possibilities ranging from natural causes to human activities.
The area where the fire started is described as being sufficiently distant from residential areas, thus avoiding immediate property damage. However, the environmental impact and health concerns due to the smoke continue to be a worry for local inhabitants.
Authorities are urging caution and cooperation from the community as they strive to manage the situation. Updates on the containment efforts and the investigation into the fire’s cause are expected to follow as the situation develops.