V/Gov orders Laem Sing Beach cleanup

PHUKET: Phuket Vice Governor Chokdee Amornwat this week has ordered the removal of all furniture on Laem Sing Beach.

The Vice Governor imposed the order after aerial photographs showing furniture strewn on the sands went viral on social media earlier this month (story here).

“As soon as I received the report, I gave vendors five days to take all of the chairs and umbrellas off the beach. My officers have confirmed that this has now been done,” Vice Governor Chokdee said.

The Vice Governor added that any further incidents would be dealt with harshly and the responsible parties would face legal charges of beach encroachment.

However, officials offered no definitive directives regarding private land ownership.

“We are still trying to work out whether the entrance to Laem Sing is privately owned and hope to find a way to resolve this issue in the public’s best interest as soon as possible,” V/Gov Chokdee said.

Laem Sing Beach is currently not under the 10 per cent zoning regulations and is categorized as a virgin beach.

“We request that the public inform us if they see someone breaking these rules, so that we can take action immediately. Any information or photographs can be submitted to the district office, provincial office or media,” V/Gov Chokdee added.

“I have been working hard on beach management and want all beaches to function under their established rules.”

— Kongleaphy Keam