Locals file complaint against construction of LPG gas station

PHUKET: Chalong Mayor Samran Jindaphol led a group of 20 local residents to Phuket Provincial Hall yesterday to formally request that Governor Nisit Jansomwong halt the construction of a new LPG gas station.

Construction started on the station, on Chao Fa East Road south of Soi Ta-iad, but was soon put on hold after residents filed a complaint with the Damrongtham Center (ombudsman’s office), explained Sutharat Chusombat, a local community representative.

“Most of the locals who live there are against it for health and safety reasons,” she told the Phuket Gazette.

“Now, construction has started again. We are worried about the inevitable safety and pollution problems this gas station will cause – this is a very controversial project and we want it stopped.”

Governor Nisit accepted the complaint and said he would set up a special committee to consider the reasons put forth by residents for halting the construction.

“This is a very delicate problem as it will have an effect on lots of people,” said Gov Nisit.

“We will consider the options very carefully, but if it turns out to have untoward risks for the local community it will be stopped.”

— Kritsada Mueanhawong