Heightened safety and security measures have been introduced, and Patong is ready for the late closing, he has assured.
The 4am extension of the closing time of nightlife venues in selected areas in Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri and Koh Samui (in Surat Thani province) is due to come into effect early Saturday morning (Dec 16).
Cabinet has approved the ministerial regulation, which as of Monday was waiting only for publication in the Royal Gazette, Mr Theeraphong said.
Patong has six zones in which the 4am closing will be in effect, affecting more than 150 establishments, he said
“The venues have prepared procedures according to the plan to take care of the safety of tourists,” he added.
Venue operators will use the ‘Thai D’ app to ensure people under 20 years old will not be allowed to enter nightlife venues using fake IDs. Security checkpoints have been set up in popular areas, such as Bangla Rd, and security personnel will conduct patrols in the busy areas, Mr Theeraphong said.
An ‘AI’ system will be used to detect faces of people passing in and out of the area, Mr Therephong noted.
“The operational plan for testing all aspects of the system has been carried out in order to continuously take care of the safety of citizens and tourists,” he said.
“We are ready to assess the situation and address defects to improve and correct the system, including the addition of ‘waiting areas’ by operators in collaboration with Patong Municipality and police officers,” he added.
The National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee last Friday ordered pubs and restaurants opening until 4am to open sobering-up areas and prevent drunk customers from driving.
“We have set up a ‘War Room’ to closely monitor and assess the situation,” Mr Theeraphong said.
“Administrative officials, police and Patong Municipality are jointly making an MOI [sic] to create an operational plan appropriate to the situation toward management that covers all dimensions and bring maximum benefit to the people as well,” he added.
Meanwhile, efforts were continuing to adjust the shoulder surface of the Kathu-Patong road over Patong Hill so that the road had more ‘strength’ to support increased travel volume, Mr Theeraphong said.
The work included the integrated efforts of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), Kathu Municipality, Patong Municipality and the Phuket Highways office, he noted.
Other work included improving lighting at blind corner areas for improved safety, he said.