file photo

 

Phuket is under pressure to address its escalating waste crisis after reports from residents near a landfill and incinerator revealed significant health and environmental threats. The issue has gained urgency following the deaths of seven locals, sparking a response from provincial authorities. Governor Nirat Phongsitthithawon led a recent meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall to confront the complaints from Sapam Hin village, where the incinerator and landfill are causing alarm among its 1,100 residents.

 

Residents have reported ongoing issues with fumes from burning plastic, unpleasant smells from decomposing waste, and fears of long-term health consequences. Local administration chief Wuttichai Bamrungrat highlighted that residents reached out to the Damrongtham Centre after an alarming number of cancer- and respiratory-related deaths occurred between October and November.

 

Additionally, ten more individuals are facing similar health issues. The affected villagers are demanding immediate health screenings, a stop to new waste deliveries, relocation of waste sites, and compensation through the Energy Development Fund.

 

Governor Nirat acknowledged the seriousness of these concerns, initiating urgent health checks for the most vulnerable residents. Starting with the first 50 individuals, the health screenings will cost 1,500 Thai baht each, funded by the Energy Development Fund and local municipalities. Those diagnosed with health conditions will be integrated into the public health system. The governor emphasised that the island's popularity as a tourist destination has significantly increased daily waste production.

 

Phuket currently generates over 1,000 tonnes of waste daily, with only a single incinerator capable of processing 700 tonnes. This mismatch results in overflowing landfills and increased environmental risks, creating a pressing need for a sustainable waste management strategy, reported the Bangkok Post.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Seven locals have died, sparking a waste crisis response in Phuket.
• Governor orders health checks and seeks funding for impacted residents.
• Over 1,000 tonnes of daily waste exceeds single incinerator capacity.

 

Related Stories:

Garbage piling up in Phuket amid tourism revival

Phuket Races to Solve Waste Crisis with New Sorting Facility

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-15

 

 

 

On my regular walks in the South of the island, I see lots of uncollected garbage. 

4 hours ago, webfact said:

Phuket currently generates over 1,000 tonnes of waste daily, with only a single incinerator capable of processing 700 tonnes. This mismatch results in overflowing landfills and increased environmental risks, creating a pressing need for a sustainable waste management strategy, reported the Bangkok Post.

The problem with so-called "over tourism" when the infrastructure is not ready. Koh Samui and Koh Tao have similar waste problems. Uncle Tu (Prayut Chan-ocha) seemed to be right about it is better fewer "quality tourists" – i.e., tourists that can afford to spend money – than mass tourism, leading to "over tourism"...

22 hours ago, webfact said:

Phuket is under pressure to address its escalating waste crisis after reports from residents near a landfill and incinerator revealed significant health and environmental threats.

Been in crisis for years

On 12/15/2025 at 2:27 AM, webfact said:

Phuket is under pressure to address its escalating waste crisis after reports from residents near a landfill and incinerator revealed significant health and environmental threats. The issue has gained urgency following the deaths of seven locals,

 

 

On 12/16/2025 at 1:18 AM, hotchilli said:

Been in crisis for years

 

Sertainly not 25-30  years ago....