The ‘Hanuman Nimitkai’ underwater sculpture project was completed on Apr 15 following several days of offshore installation work, with 73 structures placed on the seabed at depths of around 12 to 19 metres.
The installation includes 47 Hanuman-themed sculptures, alongside 15 3D-printed fence structures and 11 artificial coral reef units, all designed to encourage coral attachment and provide habitat for marine life.
The project was carried out through a collaboration between the Rotary Foundation, District 3330 (Thailand) and District 3600 (South Korea), with support from government agencies, private sector partners and the local community.
Transportation of the structures to the site took place between Apr 7-10, followed by underwater installation and positioning from Apr 11-15.
Officials said the structures are engineered to function as artificial reefs, helping to rehabilitate marine ecosystems by creating new surfaces for coral growth while also attracting fish and other marine species.
The site is also intended to ease pressure on natural reefs by providing an alternative destination for divers and snorkellers, reducing direct human impact on more fragile coral areas.
In addition to its environmental role, the installation is being positioned as a long-term learning resource to raise awareness about marine conservation among visitors and local communities.
Project organisers have also outlined plans to expand the site into an “underwater art museum”, with future sculptures depicting characters from the Ramayana epic, including Rama, Ravana and Suvarnamatcha.
Authorities say the development is part of a broader push to promote sustainable marine tourism in Phuket, balancing the island’s popularity as a diving destination with the need to protect and restore its natural resources.
With the structures now in place, officials expect the site to gradually develop into a thriving artificial reef and a new landmark attraction for divers visiting Koh Racha Yai.