Tourism Phuket Calls for Urgent Infrastructure Overhaul

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Phuket's booming tourism industry is prompting the Phuket Tourist Association to urge the government for crucial infrastructure improvements. As tourist numbers soar, the challenge is to enhance residents' quality of life, manage visitor influx, and ease congestion.

 

In the first half of this year, Phuket airport saw passenger numbers exceed pre-pandemic levels from 2019 and 2024, according to Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the association. Russian tourists led arrivals, trailed by visitors from China and India.

 

Despite a 34% decline in Chinese tourists nationwide, as reported by the Tourism and Sports Ministry, Indian arrivals have increased, partially compensating for the dip. Notably, Chinese tourists are extending their stays in Phuket, with an increase in average visits from 2.5 nights to nearly seven, a trend supported by Alipay data. Spending has also quadrupled.

 

Currently, Phuket attracts tourists from Australia, the Middle East, and neighbouring Asian countries during the low season, with European visitors on the rise ahead of their peak season in November. The association projects tourism numbers this year will surpass those of 2019 and 2024.

 

However, the island's infrastructure is under considerable pressure. Rapid growth poses challenges, particularly concerning road networks and waste management. Thep Krasattri Road (Highway 402) remains the primary link between Phuket and the mainland, and Phuket airport operates with a single runway handling 20 flights per hour. During peak season, the airport manages over 300 flights daily.

 

Waste management is another pressing issue. Phuket's incinerator processes 700 tonnes of waste daily, yet waste generation averages 1,200 tonnes, with the excess sent to landfills. A new incinerator under construction will address current waste but not future increases.

 

Water demand peaks in summer, and the lack of a comprehensive wastewater treatment system compounds the problem. The association stresses the need for urgent government intervention.

 

"If we could only choose one urgent improvement, it would be the roads," said Mr Thaneth. "Tourism must consider local residents' quality of life. Traffic congestion adds to their daily burdens and affects travellers' experiences. We urge the government to prioritise this."

 

With tourism thriving, Phuket faces a pivotal moment to address these challenges and sustain its appeal. Without systemic enhancements, the island risks undermining both local well-being and its reputation as a top travel destination. Improvements are crucial to accommodate the island's growth and aspirations.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-13

 

[ChrisY1]

The real question is : Where did all the allocated funding go?

[StayinThailand2much]

"Phuket Calls for Urgent Infrastructure Overhaul"

 

Better late than never...