DNP deputy director-general Adisorn Noochdumrong revealed the good news for conservationists on Thai Elephant Day.

Adisorn said the number of wild elephant was rising at a rate between 7 to 10 per cent. Areas that had seen the most marked increase in wild elephants were the Western forest in Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary and Eastern forest in Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai forest complex.

“This is the outstanding outcome of our efforts to protect the forest ecosystem and conserve wild elephants. We have worked at reintroducing the wild elephants to the forest and building up food sources for the elephants in the forest,” Adisorn said.

“We are happy with this success but will still continue our efforts to preserve our national symbol and let the elephants live peacefully with the people.”