Construction worker killed in Patong landslide

PHUKET: A landslide at a construction site in Phuket killed one worker and injured five others this morning.

Myanmar national Set Lai, 20, was crushed by the dirt and rebar. The other five workers were rushed to Patong Hospital, four have since been discharged, confirmed Lt Col Weerapong Rakhito of the Patong Police.

The fifth worker is still in hospital care, but not seriously injured.

“We are investigating the incident at the Patong Bay Hill construction site and attempting to determine what the cause of the landslide was,” said Col Weerapong.

Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup visited the site this afternoon and confirmed that the project has all proper documentation.

Anupong Muttaraid, spokesman for the project, expressed his sorrow over the incident.

“It was an accident due to the recent heavy rain. Nonetheless, we are deeply saddened by the loss of life,” Mr Anupong said.

Mr Anupong vowed that the company would cover medical costs and compensate the workers, as well as talk to the construction company about how to prevent such accidents from happening in the future.

“Mr Set’s mother also works for us. We will take care of the funeral arrangements and of course take care of her the best we can,” Mr Anupong added.