NBT TV Phuket

items 1 & 2 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1333

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Phuket remains a calm and safe destination for tourists with many international events scheduled to take place

Despite disruption and destruction in the capital city of Bangkok and some regional provinces in the north and north-eastern part of the country, Phuket and the Andaman provinces in southern Thailand remain calm and safe. Residents and tourists are carrying out their daily life as normal. Phuket Governor Wichai Praisa-Ngob, as usual, spends time out of the office, meeting and listening to local government leaders' and residents' needs and suggestions, most of the time at local coffee shops. The governor sees the sessions as good opportunities to meet the members of the public in a casual manner. During this week’s morning coffee meeting at a local shop in a tourist area of Karon the governor led related head officials to meet and listen to community leaders and residents plus businesses needs, concerns and suggestions. Apart from local issues, the governor was assured of Karon Municipality’s capability and preparedness to host many tourism events, domestic and international, including the Phuket Live Jazz on the Beach on Saturday May 22nd during 6 pm to midnight, while Karon stadium will also be one of the host venues for the World Senior Soccer tournament which is confirmed to be participated in by eight international teams. The event will take place during May 31st and June 5th.

Tourism in Phuket is quiet due to the low season, even though some who were deterred by Bangkok's chaos said they enjoy the calm and friendly environment in Phuket.

Being situated far away from the capital city of Bangkok, Phuket city is presently very quiet, while a beach hotel operator admitted that the occupancy rate is low due to the off peak season and the impact from the demonstrations. Local businesses in the city said they can see the sharp decline in tourists who normally walk around to appreciate the town area. We however met and talked to some tourists we found to ask about their views and impressions on the destination and some about the situation in Bangkok. This Australian couple, who are fans of Thailand as they have been visited the country 19 times and each time include Phuket in their destination, expressed their regret to see turmoil in the capital city and said it’s a shame as the disruption damages the economy. *** voice *** Meanwhile these Portuguese honeymooners said they included Thailand in one of their honeymoon destinations in Asia but had to deter from Bangkok. They kept Phuket in their itinerary and the couple admitted that being in the country itself, especially Phuket, is different from the international news coverage as the south of Thailand is very quiet and safe. **** voice *** Another couple from Canada, who we caught up with walking around in the city, said they had long been wanting to travel to Thailand, especially places like Chinag Mai in the North. But the unrest diverted their travel route, and they put Phi Phi and Phuket in their itinerary. They said they learnt that this part of the country is calm and safe unlike what their family saw back home. * voice***

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm, Friday 21st May 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

VDO on http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1332

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The crews of 12 paddlers in long boats competed along the river passing the Khanaab Nam pier in Krabi town. They entered the annual Krabi Traditional Boat Races competition racing for a trophy donated by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. It was such a spectacular scene amidst natural beauty, as it has a beautiful mountain as back drop. The Khanaab Nam Mountain is Krabi’s tourism logo. Keeratisak Phukawluan, Krabi Mayor, said: "The traditional boat of Reu Hua Tong became part of Krabi tourism. Today the logo of the boat is all over local tourist sites. The boat race event brings out local wisdom under the cooperation of all parties, especially local government. We proudly present the special type of boats which has long been present in these waters." The cooperative determination of each crew is contributed in rhythms and unity moving the boats forwards, with a pointed head on the bow or front. The high front part of these type of boats is locally called ‘Reu Hua Tong’, said to be a special character as it mobilizse well amidst waves and glides the boat to its destination or in this case the finish line. The Leader of the Singsompop team said: "During the race we control the rhythm by sound. If one misses a beat or shout, it can cause disruption so either 10 or 20 of us must shout at the same time. It’s like the power to control and mobilize the boat, slower or quicker."

The Hua Thong boat is originated in Krabi. It’s made of wood with a main purpose for fishing.. They competed for a trophy donated by HRH Princess Mahachakri Sirindhorn. People say the boat signifies local wisdom as it can be a tool for daily routine careers and become a local identity. The boats today are preserved and maintained to use in the tourism industry. The long boats can be found even though some are adapted by adding engines to replace the paddlers to serve today’s transport. The Krabi Mayor added: "Locally the boat is recognized as the legend which lives along with the locality and tourism. We link the boats with local studies into classrooms to revitalize the local wisdom. This enables the younger generation to get to know and maintain the tradition for a long time to come." The annual boat race event hence, not only promote local water sports, but it plays vital part in keeping alive the local tradition and show off local identity to visitors to Krabi as well.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces & on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket at 7pm , Friday 14th May 2010

item--8 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1330

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The new Klong Namkem literally means salty canal. A ‘floating market’ is planned to be located on a 4 rai area in Wang Mor Kaeng village in the town of Phang-Nga. The Phang-Nga Municipality is spending 15 million baht to develop the area. The Mayor Chuchote Koykul said the facility will comprise not only the canal itself, but markets for agriculture produce, local crafts and products display outlet. The plan design is in the shape of an ancient junk boat and with facility to accommodate visitors. The concrete road along the canal, behind the mangrove, will be transformed into a pedestrian way as locals can bring out their fresh food or products to sell on weekends. The project is expected to be completed by June. Chairman of the local community of Wang Mor Kaeng said he hopes the ‘floating market’ will become a new tourist attraction for visitors as they can appreciate rich natural resources while also enjoying local food and crafts. He stressed that the community pledged to boost it as a model for the Andaman coastal provinces.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces & on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket at 7pm , Friday 14th May 2010

item--2 on VDO at

http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1326

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Wing Shells were released into the sea at Paklok.

12,000 Dog Conch, or Wing Shells, were released into the sea at Paklok Bay where sea grass grows. The activity was carried out under the Marine and Coastal Resources Conservation centre’s marine resources management to increase the number of Dog Conch. This also aims to keep the fertility of the ecological system here. According to the Director of Marine and Coastal Resources Conservation centre, Paitoon Panchaipum, the population of Dog Conch is declining as they are cash crop animals and caught for sale by local fishermen. He asks local fishermen not to catch baby dog conch as Phuket needs mature females for breeding and the area with sea grass is suitable for them to breed.

Weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, & repeated on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket at 7pm; Friday 7th May 2010

item-4- on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1330

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The Russian Ambassador paid a visit to Phuket.

Russia's Ambassador to Thailand Mr Alexander Mariyasov on Monday evening paid a visit to the Consulate office for Phuket, Phang-Nga and Krabi. It’s located at Malisa Villa in Kata area, on the south side of Phuket. The Ambassador was welcomed by Minister to the Prime minister’s Office Mr. Virachai Virameteekul and the Honorary Consul Mr. Soopakij Chearavanont along with Russian residents and tourists. The envoy's visit aimed at following up the work of the honorary consul in support and assistance for Russian tourists to the Andaman region. The number of Russian tourists to the Andaman region of Phuket, Phang-Nga and Krabi is surging each year. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, in 2009 about 300,000 Russians visited Thailand.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces & on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket at 7pm , Friday 14th May 2010

A Thai tsunami watch was cancelled today after no waves were detected in Thai waters.

The tsunami watch followed a 7.4 magnitude earthquake, which struck off northern Sumatra in Indonesia at around 12.59 Thai time on Sunday afternoon 9 May. Some people who were in tall buildings in southern Thailand felt the earthquake. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii, USA, issued a tsunami watch for Indonesia only, while the Thai National Disaster Warning Center (NDWC) in Bangkok sent SMS messages to officials & media to keep watch and closely follow the NDWC's instructions.

In Phuket, sea gypsies in Laem Tukhae on Ko Sireh, east of Phuket City evacuated to safe shelters at a local school. They said they felt the earthquake. Some however kept up their routines while waiting for official warnings and kept eyes on the seawater level. Meanwhile in Patong on the west coast, residents and tourists carried on as normal, some sunbathing and walking on the beach, after a short heavy rainfall at about the same time. After no tsunami wave detections, the NDWC sent out SMS to revoke the watch at 14.11 Thai time. The tsunami warning towers were not activated because there was never any official warning issued today.

For more info NDWC's telephone hotline is 192.

From 'Andaman News' team, NBT TV Phuket, Sunday 9 May 2010

item--7 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1326 &

The Helmet law is to fully cover passengers from July 1st this year.

Starting July 1st, passengers on the back of motorbikes are required by law to wear safety helmets. This is in addition to requirement for drivers. The law will be implemented 100% in the Phuket City area, according to the provincial police commander, Pol. Major General Pikad Tantitpong. He called a meeting with all related agencies to make them understand before enforcement. Those who fail to abide by the law are to face a minimum of a 200 baht fine. The move is welcomed by Public Health specialist Dr. Wiwat Sritanamote who reported that 87% of accident casualties were caused by motorbike driving. He stressed that one seventh of motorbikes’ fatal cases are passengers. The serious enforcement of the safety helmet law for passengers is expected to reduce fatal cases from motorbike accidents by about 30%.

related item-6- Members of taxis and motorbikes for hire in Patong are offered free vaccinations against influenza A H1N1.

Around 700 people comprising drivers of taxis, tuk tuks, motorbike taxis, vehicles for hire, and attendants along with their families members, were given vaccines against the A H1N1 virus. The free vaccinations were provided by Patong Hospital on Monday. The move was part of the safety measures recognized by the public hospital. It saw that this group of people is in the hospitality and service industry and exposed to clients or passengers who are mostly tourists. Giving them immunity means safety for others. Official figures show that around 6,000 people in Phuket have been vaccinated. The health official urged high risk groups, such as women over 3 months pregnant, over weight and disabled people, to have vaccines at public hospitals.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & usually repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, & repeated on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket; Friday 7th May 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

item--5 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1326 &

Chair of Senate Standing Committee on Tourism backs the Prime Minister’s road map for national reconciliation.

Chair of the Senate's Standing Committee on Tourism, Mrs. Thanyarat Atchariyachai, expressed her support to the Prime Minister’s five-point reconciliation roadmap, saying that the plan is beneficial to all parties. She stressed that it may be a way to put an end to the violence without more bloodshed, but equally important is to restore the country’s image, especially in the eyes of foreign investors and tourists. Mrs. Thanyarat, who also runs five star hotels in Phuket and Samui, stated that the quicker the political climate resume to normal, the quicker confidence will be restored among tourists to Thailand. She went on to say that she was contacted by Chinese travel agents who cancelled in April, saying that they are now prepared to reintroduce direct flights to Phuket.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & usually repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, & repeated on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket; Friday 7th May 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

item 3 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1326 &

The British government changes their travel advice so now it does not advise against all of Thailand.

Late on Wednesday 5th May the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office or FCO issued its revised and updated version of its government travel advice against all of Thailand issued 27 April. It stated quote “This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary and the Terrorism and Security section. The overall level of the advice has changed; we no longer advise against all but essential travel to the whole country. We advise against all travel to specific parts of Thailand. We advise against all but essential travel to other specific parts of Thailand, including Bangkok. You should exercise caution, especially in the northern provinces and Pattaya" unquote. The president of Thai Hotel Association Southern chapter Suchart Hirunkanokkul welcomed the move and saw the lifting as a very positive sign for tourist destinations such as Phuket and the Andaman region. He said it would restore tourist confidence and travel mood especially for the European market. He admits that the positive result would not be felt immediately, but at least for the next high season. He also suggested that the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs invites foreign ambassadors and diplomat corps to visit Phuket to see for themselves and then they can explain to their respective nationalities about the peaceful island.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & usually repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, & repeated on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket; Friday 7th May 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

item--4 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1326 &

Phuket Airport allow more taxis and limousines in.

Phuket Airport has agreed to allow two concessionaires to add 30 vehicles each for their services at the airport. The compromised conclusion was reached after a two hour meeting on Thursday during a meeting chaired by the Senate's Committee on Transport and Communication led by Kecha Saksomboon and the Standing Committee on Tourism chaired by Mrs. Thanyarat Atchariyachai. They listened and discussed with related government officials, including Phuket Governor, Wichai Praisa-Ngob, Phuket Airport Manager Pratueng Sornkham, representatives from Phuket Airport Limousine & Business Cooperative and Phuket Mai Khao Sakoo Company to resolve the long-time conflict and ensure smooth operations and services at the international airport. The move enables the Phuket Airport Limousine & Business Cooperative to operate 30 more minivans and the Phuket Mai Khao Sakoo Company to run another 30 taxis. The additional number of vehicles will not be charged concession fees until their current concession contract expires. The Mai Khao Sakoo Company's concession ends in January next year while the other company's expiry date for concession is in September 2012. The Phuket Governor suggested that Phuket has long been facing problems related to public transportation at the airport, so clear systems or guidelines should be also laid out for other types of vehicles. There are transportation belonging to hotels, travel agents and unlicensed taxis, he pointed out, and suggested that they should be tackled so that service quality can be ensured, while people can make a decent living out of it as well.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & usually repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, & repeated on FM108 Mazz Radio in Phuket; Friday 7th May 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

There is also another small soi/lane to QSI on the left from the eastbound Kathu-Lotus road, with a cut opening in middle if coming from west.

Here is related recent VDO on QSI:

http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1324

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"I’m representing Quality School International in Phuket for the second annual Trash Fashion Show. My school, QSI has taken on a global issue and turned it into something entertaining and fun. In an effort to create awareness regarding the issue of pollution, its affect on the world, and the role we play in this problem. Jennifer Kathrens, head preschool teacher and organizer of the Fashion Show at QSI, encouraged students and staff to collect all of their garbage for a week in order to create the runway made from recycled pizza boxes, the backdrop being a collaboration of chip bags, bottles, paper, plastic, noodle cups, toilet paper rolls and the list goes on... From these materials over 30 different unique costumes were made, ranging from robots to pirates.

Our young models, girls and boys, aged from as young as three up to fifteen, showed off their creative fashion, some you would not imagine. This stunning outfit, believe it or not, is made of tires! Or this one which is worn by Liza Shuvalova, mainly made out of toilet paper. She looks gorgeous doesn't she? and one of the winners Jasmine who also gave her view on how to save energy. And many more like these............. I talked to three more of the students, Solene, Leo and Jessica, about their trash fashion and what they learnt or expect from the event. All this garbage from one week, I think it shocked some of us, it definitely shed light on how much we’re contributing to the problem and what we can do to reverse this. Most of the garbage, all the plastic, can be recycled. We at QSI want to promote an environmentally friendly change as a school. And get kids all over the world to start thinking about what they are throwing away and why. The Junk Fashion Show was a fun way to spread the word. We hope to encourage other schools and children to strive for a greener brighter future for our planet. This is Joy, reporting for Andaman News."

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & perhaps repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 30th April 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1325 &

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A Patong-Kathu tunnel plan was presented to residents.

Members of the public, who are mostly residents of Patong, on Tuesday attended a public session to hear and voice their views on a Patong tunnel project. The Patong Municipality spent 40 million baht on a feasibility study to establish alternative routes to connect the popular beach of Patong with Kathu and hired a consultant company to carry out the work. The stakeholders were presented with the 4 planned designs, the effects on local economy, socially and environmentally. Most of the participants agreed with the project seeing that the tunnel would help reduce accident risks as the present route is hilly with sharp curves. Residents of Baan Morn however disagreed with the entrance and exit of the tunnel in the plan number 2 as it would affect their community. There are 4 options of the plans. After traffic engineering, economic and environmental analysis, it was concluded that the second design is most viable. The choice is for the tunnel to begin at Highway number 4029 (near the Go Kart track) on the Kathu side. The tunnel would be 1.165 kilometres. Then there will be a 204 metres flyover across Piset Koranee Road to link with Pang Muang Kor Road or the 'third' (north-south) road.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 30th April 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

item--8 on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1325 &

Indian Travel agents eye Phuket for its annual conference venue with around 2,000 participants.

The subject was discussed when the Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand or TAT's New Dehli office, Mr. Charttan Kunchorn Na Ayudhaya, led representatives from the Indian Travel Agent Association to meet with Phuket Vice Governor Tri Akkaradecha recently. The association is preparing to hold its annual conference in September or October. They eye Thailand as a host venue, in either Phuket, Pattaya or Bangkok. The organization expects about 2,000 people to attend the conference. The director of TAT office in Phuket, Bangonrat Chinaprayoon, said she presented Phuket's preparedness which includes security measures, hotel and accommodation services and meeting facilities plus places for excursion to suit Indians' style. She also proposed 2 complimentary days one night tour package for participants and their accompanying families for tours in Phuket, Phang-Nga and Krabi which include either diving, golfing, spa and shopping. The TAT estimate it would bring approximately 400-500 million baht circulation during that period.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces Send comments to [email protected]

item-6- on VDO at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...hp?news_id=1325 &

Patong Tuk Tuk driver returned passenger’s forgotten items.

Tiratana Pluapadung, a 41 year old Tuk Tuk driver based near Jungceylon shopping mall in Patong on Tuesday was brought in to meet with Phuket Governor Wichai Prasa-Ngob. Tiratana was searching for his passengers who left belongings behind. The Tuk Tuk driver said he picked up some foreign tourists from the shopping mall and dropped them off at a hotel in Nai Harn before returning home in the Chalong area. The next morning he cleaned his vehicle preparing for service. He then spotted a paper bag with one brand new diamond and a pearl ring plus a purse and credit card slip. He then took the items to report to the manager of the Tuk Tuk stand to return to the owners. The governor applauded Tiratana for his honest deed and acting as a good host. The governor said he would contact the hotels to make sure that lost items are returned to the right owners.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 30th April 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

VDO on item-10- at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...ws_headline=VDO - weekly Andaman News April 9 (whole program) or

Tourists said they are not concerned about the 20 Baht fee collection for Phi Phi Island while operators call for a more systematic approach

Foreign tourists who arrive on Phi Phi Island of Krabi now have to pay 20 baht at a table set up by the Ao Nang local government. The new move took effect since April 1st following the local government's regulation. The fee collected will go towards the island environmental care. At first tourists did not seem to understand as some thought it was already paid, but after a clear explanation that it would contribute to environment, they said they understood. The presidents of Ao Nang Sub-District Administrative Organization Pankam Kititornkul pointed out that the fund would be spent on waste management on the island. He detailed that the island receives around 2,000 visitors per day and they plus local businesses generate about 20 tons of waste per day. His office has to shoulder over one million baht for waste disposal. He stressed that the local government has explained to tour and boat operators, most of whom understand and agree with the new measure. Mr. Nokorn Tormaitree, a boat tour operator from Phuket – Phi Phi Island, suggested that the operators should shoulder the fee and that it should be included in the tour package. He suggested a more systematic way of collection and that local government reviews the regulations.

VDO on item-7- http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...ws_headline=VDO - weekly Andaman News April 9 (whole program) or

Phuket and Phang-Nga authorities step up safety measures during long Songkran holiday period while Radio Thailand in Phuket plays its part on road safety campaign.

As part of the efforts to campaign for road safety, focusing mainly on not driving under alcohol influence and strictly observing traffic rules, Radio Thailand in Phuket on Wednesday launched a road safety campaign during the long holiday period of Songkran. The seminar was held at Phuket Merlin Hotel with related officials attending. On this occasion Diageo Moet Hennessy (Thailand) Limited donated 10 alcohol detection tools to Phuket and Phang-Nga provincial governors to support their provinces' work on alcohol detection to prevent loss of lives during the holiday period. The Thai Songkran festival holiday is celebrated during April 13-16 this year. Meanwhile Mrs. Anchalee Vanit Theppabutre, Deputy Director-General to the Prime Minister, stressed the government's policy and that the cabinet has announced this year as the year of safety. The Executive Director of PRD Region 5 Mr. Suriyong Hunthasarn reported the PRD's policy on road safety to make sure that 10 regional stations of Radio Thailand stations in upper southern Thailand under his supervision would join hands with their networks and alliances to ensure that motorists or passengers who are on the road get home to their families safely and celebrate a happy Songkran. Phuket Governor Wichai Praisa-Ngob stressed a simple statement: 'if you've drunk, don't drive' while the Phang-Nga Governor not only stressed on safety, but also encouraged Thais to follow the genuine essence of the traditional water festival to boost Thai-ness to visitors. Both governors however mentioned that the strict safety measures also cover marine journeys as the region expects a large number of holiday makers during this Songkran period due to the political unrest in Bangkok.

VDO on item--4 at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...ws_headline=VDO - weekly Andaman News April 9 (whole program) or

Songkran Festival will be held in Phuket, both on the beach and in the Old Town area.

Residents and visitors to Phuket can celebrate the traditional Thai festival of Songkran in many locations in Phuket. As for tourists, the Tourism Authority of Thailand's or TAT Phuket office director Bangonrat Shinaprayoon suggests two main locations under two themes. They are 'The Water Festival on the Beach' at the popular tourist beach of Patong and 'Songkran' in the Old Town area in Phuket city. The traditional Songkran Festival will be celebrated throughout Thailand during April 13-15. Mrs. Bangonrat expects that the popular festival will help promote Phuket under 'My Beloved Thailand campaign' and 'Amazing Thailand-Amazing Value' campaign. The TAT expects more than 80% occupancy rate in hotels during the festival period. Phuket is one of the best places to celebrate Songkran Festival, where foreign visitors can learn and join in the residents at the traditional ceremony of pouring lustral water over Buddha image and elderly and later throwing or splashing water at each other. Bangla Road in Patong is usually turned into a water-war road on April 13th where participants, mostly tourists enjoy the water fights. The festival also combines the Phuket Bike Week with many festive activities on stage in Patong. Meanwhile Songkran in Old Phuket Town will be held during April 13-15, at 5-10 pm at Queen Sirikit Public Park near the TAT office. At this location people can make merit by presenting alms to Buddhist monks, and bathe the Buddha image – 'Buddha Sihing'. Participants will also enjoy exquisite ice carving shows while they can test out different types of local gourmet. Songkran Festival is the traditional Thai New Year. This is the time for Thais to pay homage to Buddha images, clean their houses, and sprinkle water on their elders in a show of respect. It's also a time for family re-union. Anyone who goes out on the streets is likely to get wet, but usually people welcome it as April is the peak of the hot season in Thailand.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & perhaps repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 9th April 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews Send comments to [email protected]

VDO on item-- 2 at http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/prev...ws_headline=VDO - weekly Andaman News April 9 (whole program) or

Phuket Disaster Prevention and Mitigation chief in Phuket stressed information and knowledge after Wednesday's earthquake caused some false alarms and evacuations.

The 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck under the sea near northern Sumatra island at 5.15 am local time on Wednesday, led to a Tsunami watch and even some evacuations for people along the coastlines. Media received quick reports from the Thai National Disaster Warning Centre or NDWC estimating the risk of tidal waves. At the same time local authorities were notified through SMS to prepare to evacuate people in case the analysis confirmed a Tsunami. In Thailand the NDWC also relies on buoys installed at Koh Miang near Similan Island in Phang-Nga for wave detection. What happened was some local offices took precautionary measures by taking their vehicles out to announce preparations for evacuation in case of a Tsunami and this led to people's actual evacuation. These happened to both residents and tourists in some hotels who were assisted to move up to higher floors. In Phuket some people went up hills already while some like fisherman and foreign tourists still observed at Patong beach waiting for actual siren warnings from the towers. At Ban Namkem in Phang Nga villagers started to evacuate to designated locations. Phuket Governor Wichai Praisa-Ngob said it was good that people were alert about safety and followed the news and information, but they should not panic. The Phuket Disaster Prevention and Mitigation chief Mr. San Chantawong insisted that in case of any Tsunami the NDWC would make announcements on every TV channel and also radios plus SMS and the warning towers which are triggered from the NDWC. After that people evacuate. The new hotline number for NDWC is 192. He also affirms that all 19 towers in Phuket are functioning well. This is confirmed by an internal (not audible) test every morning at 9 am to check that the tower system is still working. He also reported that Phuket would not run a planned Tsunami evacuation drill previously announced for April as it involved sirens from towers, but instead they will discuss a full scale Tsunami evacuation drill in August.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & perhaps repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 9th April 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews Send comments to [email protected]

We confirm NDWC National Disaster Warning Centre in Bangkok announced lifting of tsunami watch (not warning) at 7.22am after analysis not detecting any tsunami wave.

The local Patong, Rawai & Chalong tsunami towers, where our news team went, did not issue any signals nor audio sounds.

Message Time: 06 Apr 2010 22:22 UTC (5.22 Thai time)

Message Num: 001

Message Text: click to read

Message Type: a Local Tsunami Watch is in Effect

Warning: None

Watch: INDONESIA

ETAs / Obs: ETAs

Origin Time: 06 Apr 2010 22:15 UTC

Magnitude: 7.5 Mwp (reviewed by PTWC)

Latitude: 2.2° N

Longitude: 97.1° E

Depth: 50 km (31.1 mi)

Location: Northern Sumatra Indonesia

More Info.: updated earthquake information from the USGS NEIC

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A Canadian family donated automatic external defibrillators for hospitals in Phuket as part of EMS work for accident victims.

The Yelizarov family and friends from Canada recently donated 6 automatic external defibrillators worth over 600,000 baht to local public hospitals’ emergency medical service units in Phuket. The handover ceremony took place at Patong Hospital with Dr. Wiwat Sritamanot from the provincial public health office and Patong Hospital Director Dr. Pumin Silaphan receiving the machines. The equipment is distributed to the government Wachira Hospital, Thalang and Patong Hospitals, plus Kusoldham and Ruam Jai Ku Pai charity foundations for the emergency medical services and rescue. The Canadian family lost their beloved son ‘Noah’ due to an electrical shock at Patong six years ago. He was sent to Patong Hospital which reportedly had followed standard procedure to revive Noah’s life, but it was too late. The family then got together with friends to raise funds and purchase the equipment and donated it to local EMS service units. They said they hope that the machine would help save hundreds or thousands of lives for people who have accidents just like what happened to their beloved son. The donors also arranged their teams of firefighters to train local staff on the usage of the equipment during March 19-24. **voice**

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces in Phuket, Friday 26th March 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

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Over 3,000 big bikers are confirmed to join the Phuket Bike Week 2010 during the Thai Water festival of Songkran in April.

More than 3,000 big bikers from across Thailand and nearby countries have confirmed to gather in Phuket during the ‘Phuket Bike Week 2010’ and celebrate the Thai Water Festival of Songkran, a Deputy Governor of Phuket, Mr. Teerayut Eamtrakul, announced on Saturday. The Phuket Bike Week became an annual event during Songkran holiday period and this year it is scheduled to take place during April 8-13. The main organizer, Witaya Singkara, invites big bikers and participants to join or visit the event which comprises many major activities. He stressed the highlights which include the bikers' carnival and 210 bikes displaying the shape of year 2010 at the soccer field on Patong beach. Training for big bike Highway Police Volunteers will also be arranged during April 8-9, as Mr. Witaya, nicknamed Suman, explained more. (voice) On April 13th, the actual Songkran day, they plan to join the traditional ceremony of pouring water over elders' palms for blessings. Other entertainment activities include Bike Week exhibitions, Miss Phuket Bike Week contests and concerts. The local organizer estimates there will be over 700 million baht in circulation during the Songkran Festival this year.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, Friday 26th March 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

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CCTVs in Rawai are now fully operational

The 20 million baht close circuit television or CCTV is now up and running in Rawai with the control centre located within the municipality office. Showing our news team the facility and its operation, the Rawai mayor, Arun Soros, explains that the camera covers 34 locations in Rawai which include the beaches of Rawai and Nai Han, the windmill location, and the popular tourist destination of Phrom Thep Cape. He hopes that the cameras will assist police in surveillance and that the system would be monitored 24 hours by police officials. The mayor also said he would like to restore confidence regarding the safety of the area.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & perhaps repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 5th March 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

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Authority handed over buoys for local boaters at Rai Ley beach in support of eco- tourism

Deputy permanent Secretary of Interior Mr. Phranai Suwannarat handed over the boat mooring buoys to Krabi governor Prasit Osatanond to pass on to boat operators off Phranang bay and other designated zones. Niyom Piewdee, a local community leader said the move follow cooperative efforts among related offices, local government and boaters to tidy up and maintain the pleasant scene of the tourist bay which hopefully lead to sustainable tourism development around Phranang – Rai Lay bay. The buoys would help boaters to moor their boats in the designated zones, leading to tidiness and tourist safety. The Krabi governor took the opportunity to encourage all stakeholders to take good care of environment there.

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & perhaps repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces , Friday 12th March 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews

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item-7- Lanta Cultural Festival in Krabi is scheduled to take place in early March.

The Lanta cultural festival is scheduled to take place during March 7-9 at the old community on Lanta Yai island of Krabi. Krabi Governor Prasit Osatanond said the festival will feature all types of arts and cultural heritage plus local food. The festival will tell and take residents and visitors back in time to appreciate the traditional life style of the islanders. The governor stressed that Lanta is another place which shows harmonious cultural diversity and he recommended visitors not to miss the annual festival.

item-8- Krabi Land Transport Office prepares license plate auction during February 13-14.

The popular car license plates under the ‘KOR –NGOR’ letters is scheduled to take place during February 13-14th at Krabi Maritime and Spa Resort. The provincial chief of the Land Transport Office Mr. Teeyaut Prasertpol said 301 numbers plates are to be put on auction. The license numbers are on attractive graphics representing Krabi identity. Proceeds from the auction will go towards a road safety fund which includes campaign activities and giving aid to people who are victims of road accidents. He expects that the auction would raise at least 12 million baht despite the economic downturn. Interested parties can register at the Krabi Land Transport Office until February 12th or register on site on the auction day. For more information you can contact tel. 075-611856 ext. 102-103

weekly Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am & repeated on satellite C Band (usually net black) frequency 4134 Mhz at symbolate 2530 at 1pm & perhaps repeats on Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 3.30pm, 7pm, 1.30am & 6.30am, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces & maybe Mazz Radio FM108 at 7pm in Phuket, Friday 5th February 2010 & http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/ & www.YouTube.com/AndamanNews