Picture courtesy of The Phuket News

 

Phuket officials are considering a 300km pipeline project to enhance long-term water security for the island and nearby provinces. The Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) Phuket Branch collaborated with Team Consulting Engineering and Management Public Co Ltd to present new feasibility findings to Governor Sophon Suwannarat on September 23. This initiative aims to support the rapid growth in tourism and investment along the Andaman coast.

 

The plan involves sourcing raw water from Khlong Phum Duang, where a new weir and reservoir are planned, and channeling it to the Ton Yuan Subdistrict Waterworks Plant in Surat Thani’s Phanom district. Treated water would then be pumped over 300km through Phang Nga to supply Phuket and Krabi. Serving six PWA branches, this network intends to ensure a stable water supply for local households and businesses.

 

The current feasibility study builds on last year's research, with a focus on investment costs and the potential of a public-private partnership (PPP) model to ease the state budget. Findings will be submitted to the Cabinet and relevant agencies. Although Governor Sophon acknowledged the project's importance, he emphasized the need to address environmental and community concerns.

 

“There is a need to carefully consider the details,” Governor Sophon stated, urging a swift assessment of potential impacts and local needs. Officials anticipate increased water demand in Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi, especially during peak tourist seasons when current reservoirs struggle to meet needs. Linking to Ratchaprapha Dam is seen as a way to secure water supplies for the region's future.

 

The PWA plans to provide further updates after the Cabinet reviews the proposal and funding models.

 

Key Takeaways

• Phuket officials propose a 300km pipeline to secure water supplies.
• The project could support growth in tourism and investment.
• Environmental and community considerations remain priorities.

 

Read more great Phuket News here

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-09-24

 

 

12 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

Treated water would then be pumped over 300km through Phang Nga to supply Phuket and Krabi.

 Seems excessively long to me  why not dig some/lots of local reservoirs instead  capture the abundant local seasonal rainfall.

4 minutes ago, johng said:

 Seems excessively long to me  why not dig some/lots of local reservoirs instead  capture the abundant local seasonal rainfall.

 

gam ling baby

56 minutes ago, w00n s3n said:

 

gam ling baby

Ha ha, yes lots of lovely monkey cheeks are what is needed  just wonder why they don't use them more extensively. 

Save the flood water.... 

Thats what monkey cheeks are for

saving the rain that falls locally.

More reservoirs would make for great swimming spots too.

From Surat Thani, 300kms. That's challenging terrain and, just like the routes for the hispeed rail system will involve unpopular compulsory purchase of multiple land plots and access. I hope the actual planned route is being kept secret to avoid speculative land acquistion.😋

It’s raining baht hallelujah.