RAYONG, Thailand – Koh Samet residents are calling on fisheries authorities and relevant agencies to help salvage a vessel that ran aground and sank among rocks off Sai Kaew Beach in Rayong.
The vessel “Thanyacharoen” has remained stranded at the Kanna rock formation since August 14. Despite repeated efforts by local residents, passenger boats, fishing boats, the vessel’s owner and national park officials, the boat had still not been recovered as of August 23. Residents said everyone in the area has contributed whatever equipment and expertise they have, but the salvage operation requires specialist knowledge and equipment beyond the community’s capabilities.
They are now asking fisheries authorities and other relevant agencies to provide technical advice, coordinate professional salvage assistance or identify legal options for helping the vessel owner recover the damaged boat. “We are not asking anyone to overlook the law. We simply want the authorities to provide guidance and help the boat owner,” residents said.
They noted that fishing has already become increasingly difficult, while the loss of a working vessel can leave owners facing substantial repair and salvage costs. Some could potentially face severe financial hardship if they are unable to recover their boats. Residents said they had continued helping because they sympathized with the owner, despite having no specialist knowledge of marine salvage.
They appealed to relevant fisheries agencies to act quickly if any assistance, technical consultation, specialist coordination or other lawful measures are available. The Koh Samet community also thanked national park officials, fishing crews and passenger boat operators who have joined the efforts to help the vessel owner. “We may not have the knowledge to salvage the boat, but we have done everything we can. Now we are asking the relevant agencies to step in and help,” residents said.
