Deputy PM happy with Phuket’s progress

PHUKET: During a tour of five Andaman provinces, Deputy Prime Minister Admiral Narong Pipatanasai visited Phuket Provincial Hall yesterday to express his satisfaction with officials’ progress in solving local issues.

Deputy PM Narong stopped by the Damrongdhama Center (ombudsman’s office) and met with Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada to discuss current issues facing the island and the actions taken to resolve them.

“I am impressed with everything being done to resolve issues with illegal labor and tourist safety, as well as the numerous problems that happen within the local community,” said Deputy PM Narong, referring to the recent allocation of funds for CCTV camera installation and the launch of the ‘Rapid Damrongdhama Unit’ (story here and here).

Touching on the issues of the potential water shortage, the Deputy PM added that he aimed to allocate a budget for dam construction at Bang Yai Canal.

“Traffic congestion also remains an issue, but current infrastructure projects, such as underpass construction, will help relieve that in the future,” he added.

The Deputy PM is also touring Phang Nga, Trang, Satun and Krabi to discuss general issues and government policy measures.

“So far, there are no major concerns in any of the Andaman provinces. Phuket, especially, has great potential and is managing both its resources and its tourists quite well,” said Deputy PM Narong.

— Sukawin Tanthavanich