Authorities in Phuket are being urged to investigate after images surfaced online showing a tour boat crew allegedly dumping rubbish into the sea near Tha Chin canal in Phuket province. The images depict two men aboard a vessel in Rassada subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district, throwing black garbage bags overboard. The bags reportedly burst upon impact, scattering waste across the water, causing public outrage over potential environmental damage.

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The post carrying these images suggests this is not an isolated incident, alleging repeated occurrences of similar waste disposal at this location. The revelations have sparked widespread criticism on social media platforms, with the public demanding accountability and legal action against the offenders. Concerns are growing over the threat to marine life and the potential harm to Phuket’s reputation as a tourist destination due to such pollution.

Public reaction has included calls for stricter enforcement of regulations concerning tour boat operators. Environmentalists and community members emphasize the need for more robust oversight to prevent marine pollution. This incident highlights the broader issue of environmental protection in marine areas, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices in preserving natural resources.

Moving forward, local authorities are expected to increase surveillance and implement tighter controls on marine activities to prevent future violations. Efforts may include enhanced monitoring of tour operators and increased penalties for environmental breaches, aiming to safeguard the region's ecological balance and tourism industry.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 01 Apr 2026

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The amount of plastic in Phuket on beaches, roadside, around 7-11's and markets is impressive and a growing problem. The authorities seem not to notice much.

Anyone like to work out how many times

this happens every day ?

Some things never change.

Worse is that these idiots were destroying their own livelihoods.

What's not mentioned is that their employer is the one telling them to do this because the owner does not want to pay the cost of garbage disposal. The boat owner should be ordered to clean up the garbage 5 days of the month for the next year.

"... tour boat crew allegedly dumping rubbish into the sea..."

Crapping in your own nest!

Enviroment awareness of Thailand.