Mr Udomphon assured that Phuket has enough water reserves for now, but expressed his concern for readiness in case water levels at the island’s three main reservoirs continue to fall as the dry season progresses.
According to the most recent reservoir report by the Phuket Provincial Irrigation Office, Bang Wad Reservoir in Kathu has 7.1 million cubic meters of water (about 69.6% full), Bang Neow Dum Reservoir in Srisoonthorn has 5.69mn cubic meters of water (about 73% full) and Klong Kata Reservoir in Chalong has 2.54mn cubic meters of water (61.4% full).
“The volume of water in all three reservoirs is expected to carry us through until April, and we have additional water sources from local tin mine ponds. Regardless, we are still seeking additional sources in case they become needed,” he said.
“We ask for cooperation from the people to use water economically and understand its value as much as possible,” Mr Udomphon said.
“And we ask for [the government] public relations to emphasise compliance with the government’s nine measures to support us through the dry season,” he added.
DDPM-Phuket has pumps, trucks and personnel ready in case they need to be deployed to help provide water to any areas on the island found without water supply, Mr Udomphon said.