There were presentations by representatives from Patong, Kathu, Kamala and Karon municipalities about evacuation plans and potential disasters, but the main focus was on Patong, the island’s tourist town.
The meeting was basically a refresher for Gov Maitree, who said Patong is a likely focus for a disaster to take place, especially landslides or mudslides in the Patong and Kathu foothills, flooding, fires and tsunamis.
“At the moment it is the monsoon season, and the rain continues to pour down.
“As I understand it, the Patong area is at risk of landslides. We need to prepare in terms of manpower and equipment – there are around seven risky locations.” The locations were not named.
“We need to prepare and manage systems for when a disaster occurs. Not only is evacuation important, but everyone needs to know who has responsibility for what, so we can put things in order right away.
“During the monsoon season there are also deadly rip currents in the sea in which tourists can drown. Lifeguards have so far saved 30 of them [in Patong]. This is good news, Sadly, however, four have drowned”.