Report Probe Launched into Phuket Hillside Construction Amid Environmental Concerns

[snoop1130]

 

Phuket officials have initiated a comprehensive investigation into a controversial hillside construction project in Karon following public concerns about possible illegal development and environmental harm. The inspection on April 21 was led by Surasak Anusorn, Director of the Phuket Natural Resources and Environment Office, with officers from the Provincial Public Works and Town & Country Planning Office also present.

 

The investigation stems from local residents' complaints, which flooded social media with reports of soil erosion from the construction site spilling onto roads, raising alarms about environmental degradation and potential future risks.

 

During the inspection, the team aimed to collect substantial information to support possible legal actions and forward necessary findings to relevant authorities. It has been noted that the Karon Municipality will be consulted to verify whether the construction holds the appropriate legal permits to proceed.

 

Located along Soi Patak 12, the site has previously drawn the attention of Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee. He visited on April 18 after reports of vegetation clearing led to increased erosion during recent rainfall. Accompanied by local headman Dr. Winai Chitchiew, MP Chalermpong observed water carrying sediment and sand from the site, dirtying the roads.

 

 

 

Public outcry has resulted in a temporary suspension of the construction. Measures such as using sandbags and coconut fibre mats have been adopted to minimise further erosion, while water trucks are being used to clean affected roadways.

 

Although the project supervisor asserted that development permission was sought, no documentation has been presented to verify this claim. Officials have expressed intent to confirm the project's legality through consultation with the municipality and related agencies, signalling further investigation.

 

The outcome of this inquiry is crucial, as it will determine the project's fate and its alignment with local regulations. Residents, concerned about the integrity and environmental impact of the development, are eagerly awaiting official confirmation on whether the project can lawfully continue.

 

Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger

 

-- 2025-04-22

 

 

[Tropicalevo]

[couchpotato]

Wow those structures sitting on 2 flimsy poles, sunk into a mountain side that is collapsing.  Where do people get these absolutely stupid and dangerous ideas...

[blaze master]

What environmental concerns? Many  Thai don't have any of those.