The mayor revealed that the municipality’s efforts to resolve the issue have been stymied by the private ownership of the road.
“Patong Municipality has no authority to enforce rules or regulations on private property,” Mayor Chalermsak told The Phuket News. “We’ve requested a transfer of ownership, but they’ve declined, preventing us from planning any projects.”
Efforts to clear the road and implement traffic management measures, such as redirecting cars and motorbikes, have also been blocked.
“Some locals are willing to transfer the land to the public sector,” the mayor said. “But unless all private owners agree to hand it over entirely, the municipality cannot proceed. This could lead to disputes with those who disagree in the future,” Mayor Chalermsak said.
Mayor Chalermsak noted that similar challenges exist on other privately owned roads in Patong, such as Soi Baanzaan, where the municipality faces mounting complaints about traffic hazards.
“I often hear complaints about motorbikes and cars clipping pedestrians. While some business owners want us to intervene, they haven’t transferred the land to the public. Without their consent, neither the police nor the municipality can act,” he said.
The lack of municipal authority extends beyond traffic issues. Mayor Chalermsak pointed out that the municipality is unable to repair roads or install drains to prevent flooding.
“I just do what I can to address the problem, but I cannot carry out projects or make necessary improvements,” Mayor Chalermsak said.
One of the most pressing concerns is the absence of an emergency exit on Soi Saensabai, which poses significant risks during emergencies.
“Fire trucks and other safety services can’t access the area. We’ve filed a complaint emphasising the need for an emergency exit, but the private owner argued there were no regulatory violations,” he said, adding that the municipality has even faced legal threats over the matter.
As tourism high season approaches, Mayor Chalermsak warned that the lack of municipal authority over privately owned streets could exacerbate traffic and safety issues.
“When problems arise, people turn to the municipality with complaints,” he said. “But it’s important to understand the limitations we face when dealing with private property.”
The mayor called for greater cooperation from private landowners to resolve such issues and ensure public safety.