Bangkok, May 26 (IANS): Three islands off Phuket in south Thailand were closed to tourists to protect endangered coral reefs, Thai Marine officials said on Wednesday.
The tiny islands off Phuket's east coast, namely Koh Khai Nai, Khai Nok and Khai Nui, were shut down with all facilities and structures used for tourist activities since about 80 percent of coral reefs in the area have been destroyed, Xinhua news agency reported.
Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) pointed out that the islands usher in at least 60 speedboats per day. More and more restaurants and shops settle down in the wake of the arrival of an increasing number of tourists, who often spend at least three hours feeding fish and snorkeling.