Politics Governor Seeks Phuket Upgrade to Tackle Island Woes

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Phuket's governor, Sophon Suwannarat, has called for the island to be upgraded to a special administrative area to address its critical infrastructure and environmental challenges. With pressing issues like clean water shortages, inadequate wastewater management, and rubbish disposal plaguing the province, urgent action is needed.

 

Currently, Phuket is struggling with a limited budget of approximately 170 million Thai Baht, hampering large-scale improvements. Governor Sophon believes that special administrative status, as proposed by MP Somchart Techathavorncharoen, could unlock the resources necessary for vital infrastructure projects. These projects include the much-anticipated Kathu-Patong expressway, set to become operational by 2030.

 

Clean water access is a significant concern for the island. Plans are underway to purchase water from defunct mining pits and construct a long-distance pipeline from Ratchaprapha Dam in Surat Thani. This initiative aims to benefit the broader Andaman coastal region.

 

The waste management system also requires enhancement. A second waste incineration facility is planned to handle 1,200 tonnes per day, with construction set for completion next year, pending land approval.

 

Phuket's development isn’t solely focused on infrastructure. Mayor Supachok Laongpetch revealed a vision for revitalising Old Town to increase tourism. This includes hiring experts to address traffic congestion and preserve the area’s heritage.

 

To further boost the local economy, the city plans to auction the rights to create souvenirs featuring the "Chartered Bear" mascot. This strategy is designed to generate revenue without raising taxes, while positions Phuket as a gastronomic hub through partnerships with the Phuket Tourist Association and Hotel Association.

 

Efforts are also being made, in collaboration with the Provincial Electricity Authority, to modernise the island's power infrastructure by moving more electric cables underground. New night markets and community-integrated tourism schemes are also part of the municipality's broader development strategies.

 

In summary, the call for special administrative status is seen as a necessary step to secure the funding and authority needed to implement these wide-ranging initiatives, addressing both urgent issues and future growth opportunities. Governor Sophon and his team are keen to foster sustainable development while enhancing Phuket’s appeal to tourists and residents alike.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-15