More Buoys For Raya Yai As Day Trippers Multiply

RAYA YAI: The rising numbers of tourists taking day trips to Raya Yai has prompted the authorities to place more buoys around the island. Tourism Authority of Thailand records show that between 200 and 300 tourists travel to the Raya Yai every day, 95 percent of them on day trips. A survey by the Chulabhorn Research Institute confirmed that the island did not have enough buoys to ensure tourist safety and protect marine resources. What buoys did exist were not strong enough to hold some of the boats tying up to them. As a result, 50 personnel from government and commercial bodies spent two days earlier this month installing 30 buoys as an emergency measure, at a cost of 221,000 baht. Further mooring buoys, along with markers for the coral line, diving zone and swimming area, will be installed next year.