The PM and her entourage are to join a meeting to address critical local issues and bolster the region’s tourism sector, explained the Phuket branch of the Public Relations Department in a post late this afternoon (Jan 7).
The visit includes chairing an integrated meeting on local problem-solving and inaugurating the ‘Thailand International Boat Show – A Luxury Lifestyle Event’, the official notice added.
The Prime Minister’s itinerary begins with her departure from the 2nd Military Airport, Wing 6 (B.6), at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok at 9am aboard an Air Force Airbus-320.
She is scheduled to arrive at Phuket International Airport at 10:20am.
The Prime Minister will chair an integrated meeting at the Phuket International Airport Conference Room to discuss key issues affecting the province.
According to the notice, the Governor of Phuket, Sophon Suwannarat, will provide an overview of tourism in the area, while other agencies will present solutions to pressing challenges, including:
- Water shortages: The Provincial Waterworks Authority will propose measures to ensure consistent water supply for consumption.
- Flooding and drought: The Royal Irrigation Department will outline plans to enhance reservoir storage capacities.
- Traffic congestion: The Phuket Provincial Police and the Highways Department will present strategies to alleviate traffic issues.
- Tourism growth: Discussions will focus on managing large-scale events and positioning Phuket as a premium destination.
Following the meeting, PM Paetongtarn will travel to the Phuket Yacht Haven Marina in Mai Khao to preside over the opening ceremony of the Thailand International Boat Show.
The event aims to highlight Phuket as a global hub for luxury tourism and maritime activities.
In the afternoon, the Prime Minister will inspect flood prevention and management initiatives in the province, reaffirming her administration’s commitment to addressing Phuket’s infrastructure needs, the official notice today explained.
In particular, PM Paetongtarn is to visit Bang Neow Dum Reservoir in Srisoonthorn.
Motorists in the area are advised to expect further delays in addition to the traffic chaos that has already gripped many areas on the island.