The letter was delivered during a gathering at Wat Kittisangkaram (Wat Kata) by Chalong Loi-Samut, a representative of the affected community, reported state news agency NNT.
The residents are not only seeking answers about the cause of the landslide but are also urging authorities to implement warning systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In addition to the investigation request, Mr. Chalong presented documents previously submitted to local authorities, including a letter from 2020 and photographs from a landslide that occurred 11 years ago. The documents highlight long-standing concerns about the safety of the Nakkerd hills and the risks faced by villagers living at its base.
The community’s plea has drawn attention from several key officials, including Phuket Vice Governor Sattha Thongkham and Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee.
Both officials have expressed their commitment to addressing the issue. Mr Chalermpong announced plans to coordinate with various government agencies, including the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), to investigate the destruction of the forest on the hills.
He also plans to work with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Interior to address concerns about Buddhist commercial activities and to expedite the installation of warning systems.
Deputy Governor Sattha Thongkham confirmed that the governor has already requested action from the MNRE Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat.
The priority is to ensure that construction and land use on the Nakkerd hills comply with legal regulations. Immediate efforts are also underway to clear mud and debris from homes and roads to restore normalcy for the affected residents.
The Kata community remains vigilant, as the ongoing rainy season poses further risks, said the report.