Phuket extends pub and bar hours to boost tourism and employment

Phuket is set to extend the operating hours of its pubs and bars till 4am, with the new timing being tentatively scheduled to start on December 15. This decision was reached following a public hearing conducted by the Phuket Provincial Administration Office.

The new operating hours are to be implemented in six zones on Bangla Road in the Patong area of the Kathu district. In addition, 106 out of 229 entertainment venues located in the outer zones will also have their operating hours extended. The projected result of this extension includes a 30 to 50% increase in venue earnings and a 20 to 30% boost in employment rates.

The decision came as a response to the observation that many tourists tend to explore the area from early evening, contributing to the island’s economy. In addition to this, six safety measures will be put in place concurrently with the extension of operating hours.

The first measure involves installing CCTV cameras in the designated zones, which will be monitored by a special administrative unit and various agencies.

The second measure will see local health-promoting hospitals working together to establish active health check plans for these areas. This will provide people with health advice and assess the sanitary conditions of both staff accommodation and the entertainment venues, reported Bangkok Post.

Emergency mobile units will be stationed at police booths and near ThaiPan restaurants as part of the third measure, while police units will be deployed to help manage road and pavement traffic from 6pm to 9pm and carry out round-the-clock patrols as the fourth measure.

The fifth measure involves the collection of rubbish and waste from 6am to 6pm for separation before being dumped on outer roads or at special spots arranged by the municipality.

For disaster suppression and safety maintenance in Mueang Patong, three municipal units, two fire-fighting units, and 36 lifeguards, including four working overnight, will be deployed. Eight volunteer lifeguards will also be on duty from 8pm to 8am.

Some zones will also be designated for cannabis smoking to avoid disturbing others. Additionally, to increase security, police and administrative officials will strengthen their illicit drug suppression measures and take legal action against offenders. The distribution of alcoholic drinks will also be under strict control.