Pollution Officials Inspect Algae Surge at Patong Beach

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

Pollution control officials have inspected a large accumulation of algae along Patong Beach in Phuket after concerns were raised about potential impacts on tourism, coastal scenery and odour. The inspection confirmed that while algae were widespread on parts of the beach, seawater quality remains within national standards for recreational use.

The inspection was carried out at 4.30pm on 6 February, following reports of green and red algae washing ashore in significant quantities. The algae were found both floating in the sea and scattered across the sand, particularly along the southern section of Patong Beach.

According to Surin Warakithamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, the inspection was conducted by the Office of Environment and Pollution Control Region 15 in Phuket. The northern and central sections of the beach were found to have only small amounts of algae in the water, with none observed on the shoreline in those areas.

Officials conducted preliminary coastal seawater quality tests at three locations approximately 10 metres from the shore. At the southern site, the pH level was measured at 8.15, dissolved oxygen at 7.62 milligrams per litre and total dissolved solids at 47.6 grams per litre.

At the central site, the pH level was 8.17, dissolved oxygen measured 7.48 milligrams per litre and total dissolved solids were recorded at 48.1 grams per litre. The northern site showed a pH level of 8.11, dissolved oxygen at 7.52 milligrams per litre and total dissolved solids at 48.0 grams per litre.

Mr Surin said all recorded values were within Thailand’s coastal seawater quality standards for Category 4 waters, which are designated for recreational activities. However, he warned that algae deposited on the beach could still affect visual appeal and produce unpleasant odours, potentially harming Phuket’s tourism image.

The Pollution Control Department has coordinated with Patong Municipality, which has deployed staff to remove seaweed from the beach every morning. This clean-up effort aims to reduce immediate impacts while longer-term solutions are considered.

Data from 2025 show that Patong Bay recorded a Marine Water Quality Index (MWQI) score of 65, classified as “fair”. Key contributing factors identified were nitrate-nitrogen and phosphate-phosphorus levels, which can promote algae blooms.

Khoasod reported that Mr Surin said regional environmental authorities have been working continuously with relevant agencies to develop preventive measures and long-term solutions to address nutrient pollution and reduce the likelihood of future algae proliferation.

Key Takeaways

• Seawater quality at Patong Beach remains within national recreational standards despite algae accumulation.

• Green and red algae were found mainly along the southern section of the beach on 6 February.

• Local authorities are conducting daily clean-ups while longer-term pollution controls are explored.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2026-02-08