Power to the pavement: Phuket’s bold move buries cables, sparks a brighter future

A significant initiative has been launched in Phuket, with the city’s Municipality signing a deal to bury power cables underground along three major roads.

The undertaking is part of a broader plan aimed at enhancing safety, elevating aesthetics, and improving the quality of life for residents.

Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkhanapilas announced the development yesterday. The initiative, a partnership between Phuket City Municipality and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), will see the electricity distribution system overhauled. Key roads targeted in this phase of the project include Thepkrasattri Road, Dibuk Road, and Phuket Road.

The scope of the project involves sections of Thepkrasattri Road, stretching from Wat Kosit Wihan to the Tua Pho Intersection, Dibuk Road from Lok Thian Intersection to the Tua Pho Intersection, and Phuket Road from Phra Aram Bridge to Bang Neow Intersection. These areas, covering a total distance of 2.8 kilometres, are slated to start transforming this month.

Phuket City Municipality engaged the services of Advance Information Technology Public Company Limited to carry out the work. The project’s budget is set at 115,565,350 baht, with the company given 360 days to complete the execution.

The role of the Provincial Electricity Authority in this venture extends to overseeing the electrical system. This includes the installation of a 33-kilovolt high-voltage power supply cable underground, along with low-voltage cables and the required transformers, reported Phuket News.

Prior to the start of construction, the municipality will inform the public about the project, particularly those residing in the construction area and those commuting through it. The goal is to ensure that the construction proceeds smoothly and has the least possible impact on residents.

Mayor Saroj underscored the benefits of moving electrical wires and cables underground. He explained that this move would boost the safety and stability of the power supply, enhance the city’s scenery, and promote an image of Phuket Municipality as a Smart City. This, in turn, is expected to attract more travellers, both local and international, and stimulate economic growth in the town.