Pichak Sornchana, Deputy Director of the Highway Department confirmed to The Phuket News today (July 1) that officials are aware of the damage and that temporary measures have been taken to stop further damage occurring.
“We were notified of the damage on June 18 and at that time we placed traffic cones on site so that traffic avoided the damaged section of road. Concrete barriers later replaced the cones, and shuttering was placed where the landslide had occurred to stop it sliding any further,” he said.
Mr Pichak went on to explain that the damage occurred when the Phuket Provincial Electric Authority (PEA) were carrying out work to install new electricity pylons alongside the road.
“PEA dug at about ten spots alongside the road ready to put in the pylons, and the foundations for the pylons had already been prepared. However, as they went further towards the bend, when they dug out the soil the land slipped and caused the road to crack.
“PEA were immediately ordered to stop their work until the matter is resolved,” he said.
“There is a high possibility that some of the road will collapse, in fact, I have already been told that some has collapsed already.
“We held a meeting with PEA officials today and they have admitted that the damage happened due to their work. They have confirmed that the cost repairs will be paid by them.
“Both departments have agreed to work together to find the best solution to fix this within seven days, we will know by then how much it will cost the PEA to repair this part of the road.
“in the meantime, motorists heading towards Kata from Chalong should proceed with caution because only one is open for the time being,” he added.