The Chiang Mai Night Safari promises to be a popular, world-class destination for travellers within three years, said Natural Resources and Environment Minister Yongyuth Tiyapairat.

During a trip to deliver about 200 wild animals to the Night Safari, Yongyuth said the safari would hold its official opening on the night of Loy Krathong in November.

"This will be a most beautiful night safari and also the biggest one in the world," Yongyuth said.

In order to assure the public that the safari will not pose a threat to the environment, Yongyuth said he would invite NGO groups and wildlife agencies to check the park.

Nikhom Phuttha, an adviser to the Wildlife Fund Thailand Northern Network, said the safari should post signs outside animals' cages detailing how the animal had been acquired, whether by donation, direct purchase or on loan from another institution.

The Night Safari is one of the projects aimed at developing tourism and promoting Lanna culture in Chiang Mai, Lamphun and Mae Hong Son provinces.
Nation 24 July 2004, www.nationmultimedia.com