Phuket storm: Gov orders landslide watch

PHUKET: Phuket Governor Tri Augkaradacha today ordered all government officers to be on the lookout in high risk areas where the onslaught of rain may cause landslides.

“As it has been raining heavily in Phuket for the past few days, it may cause problems with flooding and landslides,” said Gov Tri.

Specifically, he ordered all three District Offices in Phuket – Kathu, Thalang and Muang – as well as officers from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Phuket office (DDPM-Phuket) and other local organizations to keep close watch on the 14 areas already identified as at high risk for landslides.

The 14 areas are: Baan Mai Reab, Baan Nua and Baan Kalim in Kathu; Baan Kanan, Baan Kuan, Baan Pak Cheed, Baan Lipornbangkok and Baan Tha Rua in Thalang; and Baan Kata, Baan Bangla, Baan Kokchang, Baan Watmai, Baan Laem Promthep and Baan Chidcheaw in Muang district.

Gov Tri reminded officers that the Provincial Office has a 50 million baht reserve fund from which to offer immediate assistance to anyone affected by flooding or landslides.