Top official inspects Phuket’s safety amid landslide scandal
A high-profile visit to Phuket has reignited scrutiny over the island’s safety protocols and infrastructure as former Vice Governor and now Inspector-General of the Ministry of Interior, Supoj Rodruang Na Nongkhai, returned on Christmas Day.
Supoj, whose career has soared since leaving Phuket in 2020, arrived to review critical policies including tsunami preparedness, illegal hotels, and landslide prevention. Accompanied by Governor Sophon Suwannarat, the visit was part of a broader inspection of the Andaman Coast Southern Provinces under the Ministry of Interior’s fiscal year 2025 initiatives.
In a packed meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall, representatives from 26 state enterprises and local administrative bodies tackled pressing issues. Updates were provided on the Ao Chalong Pier Smart Pier project, which integrates face-scanning technology for passenger safety, as well as efforts to curb illegal accommodations and promote Phuket as a digital nomad hub.
Supoj also surveyed Chalong Pier and the Big Buddha Viewpoint—the site of an August landslide that killed 13 people, allegedly linked to illegal construction. Despite significant media attention and a December 20 press conference led by Governor Sophon, no official announcements have been made regarding the investigation into the disaster.
Critics have questioned the silence, as the landslide reportedly dominated discussions between Supoj and local leaders. The government’s continued focus on enhancing Phuket’s tourism appeal, however, remains evident, with safety and sustainability touted as top priorities.
As the island prepares for the new year influx of visitors, the visit underscores both the progress and challenges facing Phuket’s role as a global tourist destination. Whether accountability for past tragedies will follow remains an open question, reported The Phuket News.
In related news, Phuket is set to enhance its disaster preparedness with an integrated exercise aimed at tackling potential floods and mudslides. Scheduled for January 16, 2025, the event is designed to boost the island’s readiness and response capabilities in the face of such emergencies.
