Phuket faced severe natural disasters this past year, including unprecedented floods and landslides. The June 29-30 floods in Kamala marked the first major flooding event of its kind in the area, while the deadly landslide in Kata on Aug 23 claimed 13 lives, including migrant workers from Myanmar, and tourists from Russia.
These disasters have underscored the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure to mitigate future risks, Governor Sophon noted.
“In response, local authorities quickly mobilised rescue operations and began debris removal efforts. However, recovery has been slow due to the scale of destruction,” he added.
Despite these disasters, Phuket’s tourism sector experienced a remarkable recovery. According to Governor Sophon, the island welcomed over 9 million visitors between January and September, generating more than B360 billion in revenue, exceeding pre-pandemic levels from 2019.
“This surge in tourism has placed immense pressure on local infrastructure,” he explained. To address these challenges, the province has prioritised infrastructure development, including road expansions and supporting public transport projects such as the Phuket Smart Bus. These initiatives aim to reduce congestion, improve accessibility and enhance the overall tourist experience, he said.
LOOKING AHEAD
Governor Sophon said major infrastructure developments were underway to alleviate key pressures, including traffic. The construction of a new expressway connecting Phuket Town to Kathu, is slated to begin early this year. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion by 2029, he said.
Other projects included expansion of public transport with electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce car dependency and promote sustainability, and upgrades to air transport infrastructure, including four additional aircraft parking bays at Phuket Airport and progress on the ‘Andaman Airport’ in Phang Nga.
Governor Sophon also emphasised efforts to protect Phuket’s natural beauty. Initiatives including conservation projects for coastal areas and mangrove forests and construction of a second incinerator to address waste management challenges, with a third incinerator requested for long-term solutions.
Advanced warning systems for landslides, featuring rain gauges and soil monitoring technologies and a wastewater treatment system developed in collaboration with Chinese experts to reduce pollution and ensure sustainable water supply were also underway, he said.
SKILLS GAP
“The province [provincial officials] is working to address education gaps, particularly among marginalised groups like sea gypsy children, by integrating them into the education system through both in-person and online courses,” Governor Sophon said.
He also highlighted a growing emphasis on improving language skills, particularly in Russian, to better communicate with the increasing number of Russian tourists visiting Phuket.
Another key focus is workforce development, with the province investing in vocational training programs for industries such as yacht care and hospitality, which are crucial to the local economy.
“Our efforts over the past year have been successful thanks to cooperation from all sectors ‒ government, social organisations and the media. The valuable input from the public, media and the private sector has been instrumental in addressing major issues like flooding, waste management, power outages and more,” he added.
“The province cannot work alone; collaboration from all sides is essential to drive meaningful change,” Governor Sophon said.
“By working with local communities and partners, we aim to develop a sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism model that benefits both residents and visitors. Through these ongoing efforts, Phuket will continue to thrive as a unique, sustainable destination. We will also remain committed to enforcing laws to maintain a harmonious environment,” he concluded.
LOCAL VOICES
Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee highlighted the political shifts of 2024, including the dissolution of the Move Forward Party, as a significant event for Thailand. Locally, he emphasised the importance of teamwork to overcome challenges like flooding and infrastructure deficiencies.
“With cooperation, we can transform Phuket into a high-quality, sustainable tourism hub,” he stated.
Patong Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri outlined efforts to address Patong’s flash floods and traffic congestion. Dredging canals and implementing urban development projects, including a three-kilometre beachfront renovation, are key priorities.
“Patong isn’t that bad in terms of disasters, but we do have occasional flash floods that take time to drain,” he said.
“To address this, the municipality has been dredging the canals, with assistance from Phuket Prison inmates for the cleanup. Now water flows more efficiently into the sea,” he added.
Traffic, however, remains a significant issue, with persistent congestion in key areas.
“The municipality is undertaking several urban development projects, including a three-kilometre landscaping initiative to enhance the beachfront promenade and establish distinct zones: a Welcome Zone, a Family Zone and a Business Zone,” he explained.
“Although the construction has added to the traffic, it’s necessary for the city’s growth,” he said.
Future projects will enhance the city’s Welcome and Business zones with budgets exceeding B100 million, Mayor Chalermsak noted.
Patong Municipality is also addressing environmental issues with plans to lay wastewater pipes in Baan Kalim to Soi Khuan Yang at a cost of B115mn.
“These initiatives aim to keep the environment clean and support sustainable development,” Mayor Chalermsak noted.
As for tourism, Patong’s population swells from 20,000 to over 100,000 daily during the high season, Mayor Chalermsak said.
Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, President of Phuket Tourism Association, Phuket’s global reputation as a tourist destination was bolstered by the success of events like the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which won the 2024 World Festival City title.
Mr Thaneth emphasised the need for sustainable tourism practices to combat challenges such as global warming and traffic congestion. Plans for new events, including the Thailand Biennale 2025 and Diwali celebrations, aim to solidify Phuket’s status as a year-round destination, he said.
“Despite these hurdles, the tourism sector is thriving, with revenue reaching pre-pandemic levels. The association is committed to promoting Phuket globally, with numerous trade shows planned in key markets, including Saudi Arabia, India and China,” Mr Thaneth said.
“Phuket is a destination for everyone, all year round,” he noted.