Tensions are brewing in the Thai district of Phuket as around 100 local inhabitants have expressed their opposition to a strategy that would allow the navy to utilise the land for both an operational base and as a provision for the future growth of the neighbouring international airport.

 

The local populace recently passed a letter of protest to the provincial governor, championing a halt to the Third Naval Area Command (TNAC) efforts in securing an area within the Bang Khanoon forest park in the Thalang district.

 

The locals insist on a public hearing regarding the navy’s intent to establish a fresh space for the 22nd Air Defence Battalion (ADB) and determine a space for the future expansion of Phuket International Airport.

On the first day of March, the TNAC was granted permission from the Royal Forest Department (RFD) to make use of approximately 3,700 rai of forest land situated in Tambon Sakhoo. In terms of the 22nd ADB, the navy has suggested repositioning parts of its shore patrol units and Naval Military Police Regiment to the location.

 

by Mitch Connor

Image courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/phuket-locals-pushback-on-navys-plan-for-base-and-airport-expansion

 

-- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-11

 

- Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here.

Deaf ears comes to mind.