PPAO Transport Division Director Prasit Yotarak told The Phuket News today, “The jetty collapsed on Sunday Mar 4, possibly due to a boat, which used its stern to approach the jetty on its right side, hitting the jetty.
“We are hurriedly fixing it. We are recovering the jetty right now,” he said.
“We are also trying to check CCTV to see if it was caused by a fishing boat hitting the pier, and if so, which boat,” he said.
“I cannot tell exactly when the repairs will be finished. I will update you on the process soon.
“We have to wait until tonight before I can give further details.” said Mr Prasit.
“This does not much affect any boats or tourists, because we still have another pier available. However it might cause the tourists to take more time to board the boats.”
Phuket Marine Office Chief Surat Sirisaiyat warned boat operators and sailors on Sunday that the jetty at Chalong Pier collapsed and cannot be used for mooring.
“The right side of the pier has collapsed and can now pose dangerous to people. All boats are banned from using the pier until repairs are completed,” said an official notice signed by Mr Surat. (See story here.)
– Pakin Intajak