Five “tigers’ to expedite Patong plan

PHUKET: Governor Udomsak Usawarangkura has appointed a committee of five “tigers” to speed up the implementation of the recovery plan for Patong Beach.

The committee will be chaired by Vice-Governor Winai Buapradit, who will be joined by Patong Mayor Pian Keesin; Kathu District Chief Khantee Silapa; Kathu Police Station Superintendent Pol Lt Col Teeraphol Thipjaroen, and Phuket Tourist Association President Pattanapong Aikwanich.

“These five tigers will meet every Wednesday to rebuild the beach quickly according to the plan,” the Governor declared.

Gov Udomsak announced the formation of the committee at a meeting of chief provincial officers and local authority staff today at Phuket City Hall.

The Governor told those present he was concerned at the lack of progress in moving the plan – commissioned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) – from theory into practice.

“The government was clear about this,” said the Governor. “Patong Beach should be safe and beautiful, and ‘restored’ in line with the TAT plan, within two months of being hit by the tsunami.

“As a result, other local government officers should share the responsibility for implementing the plan with Patong Municipality.”