Beach chair judgment day put on hold

PHUKET: The final decision on how to the manage Phuket’s controversial beach chair services has been delayed yet again as Prince of Songkla University (PSU) researchers and Governor Nisit Jansomwong have not yet discussed the university’s research results.

Governor Nisit previously told the Phuket Gazette that the PSU Phuket campus would be presenting their results to him on August 20 (story here).

“We will consider the information they bring to the table and balance it with other factors that will weigh into ensuring the greatest benefit for the public,” Gov Nisit said.

However, currently there is no rescheduled date in sight.

“I will send a letter to the governor. However, when we meet will depend on him. We will try to make it as soon as possible, I hope no later than next week,” Associate Professor Pun Thongchumnum, Dean of Faculty of Technology and Environment, told the Gazette.

Initial research results were already in hand in June. However, Dr Pun felt there was more work to be done before presenting anything to the public or governor (story here).

“We need to study and analyze specific aspects of the findings, especially how it pertains to environmental issues, economics, tourism and social management, so that our research is more valuable and conclusive.”

Dr Pun is confident that the researchers have come up with a solution for Phuket’s beach-management issues, and hopes provincial officers will be able to implement it.

“We have come up with a suggestion based on five essential factors: legality, preventing the use of public land for profit, building harmony among all parties, generating more income and environmental friendliness,” Dr Pun said.

“I think our solution is neutral and promotes sustainable development for tourism on Phuket.”

— Kongleaphy Keam