Ancient fossil draws researchers

PHETCHABUN: A 240 million-yearold fossil found in this northern province has prompted geological researchers from Chulalongkorn University to visit the area.

A trail of fossils — among them a 100-metre stream of primeval shells and bones of aquatic animals estimated to come from the Permian period over 240 million years ago — were located in Ban Sub Dua in tambon Ban Poj in Nong Phai district last week.

The ancient remnants emerged after rain washed away earth, according to Visan Kosintanot, director of Phetchabun Geopark.

He said researchers from Chulalongkorn will visit the site.

The local administration of tambon Ban Poj has already opened the site to tourists.

Last year the cabinet endorsed a proposal to develop Phetchabun Geopark with an aim to enlist it in Unesco’s Global Geopark.