Giant 60-Year-Old Pine Tree Falls Near Doi Suthep Temple Entrance, Damaging Red Truck

A giant pine tree, estimated to be over 60 years old, has fallen near the entrance archway to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a prominent tourist destination in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. The incident occurred on September 14, 2026. According to local media reports from MGR Online, the tree collapsed close to the archway leading up to the temple. Fortunately, there were no injuries as no one was in the vicinity at the time of the incident. However, one 'red truck,' a common local public transport vehicle, sustained significant damage from the fallen tree. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a significant religious site and tourist attraction, perched on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai city, drawing numerous visitors from both domestic and international origins. The access road to the temple is its primary route, and in recent years, concerns have been raised about aging infrastructure and preparedness for natural disasters. This fallen tree incident underscores the importance of infrastructure management to ensure visitor safety while preserving historical structures and natural landscapes. It also highlights the necessity of preventive measures such as regular inspection and removal of aging trees.