Phuket longtails get new pier at Chalong

PHUKET: Work on a new pier for longtail boats in Chalong Bay is now about 25 per cent complete and should be finished by the scheduled completion date in late May, the project contractor says.

Work on the 11.6-million-baht project, known in Thai as “Saphan Reua Hang Yaow”, is funded by the Ministry of Transport.

Wandee Suwanchot, controller of the main pier at Chalong Bay, said use of the new pier will be reserved solely for local longtail operators.

The new pier will provide easier access than the nearby Chalong Pier that is administered by the Phuket Provincial Administration Organization (OrBorJor).

Contractor Sahakarn Thurakij Co Ltd began work on the pier on May 31, 2010 and have 360 days to complete the project.

Project supervisor Sorachat “Dum” Daengbutnoi said he understands that the finished project will be available for locals free-of-charge, making it easier and more convenient for them to arrive and depart.

The concrete pier, 2.9 meters wide and 282 meters long, will sit atop166 pilings that range in length from about two meters at the shoreline to about five meters at the end of the pier.

Despite problems sinking the piles in difficult tidal conditions, Mr Sorachat said that work is on schedule and his firm plans to fully complete the project on scheduled completion date of May 26.

— Samaporn Janyanon