Beach zoning and taxis fares were the main topics of conversation at the closed door meeting between Netherlands Ambassador to Thailand Karel Hatogh, Netherlands Honorary Consul to Phuket Seven Smulders and Governor Chamreon Tipayapongtada.
After the meeting Gov Chamreon revealed that Mr Hatogh wanted to know how the beach management system was progressing and what affect it will how have on tourists in general.
“Mr Hatogh and Mr Smulders were informed about the 10 per cent zones and that umbrellas and mats are allowed in them,” Gov Chamreon said.
“The beach encroachment issue also was another topics of discussion. I told them that the only beach that still has this issue is Surin and that the local authority has been ordered to solve the problem by the end of this month,” he added.
Mr Hatogh pointed out to the governor that the main locations for jet-skis and para-sails on the beaches are mostly in the centre section of the beach, he feels they should be relocated because that area has many activities, are often crowded and could be prone to accidents.
“Mr Hatogh suggested moving the jet-ski and para-sail zones to a spot at each end of the beach for safety reasons,” said Gov Chamreon.
Another issue where Mr Hatogh wanted to see change was the taxis fares.
“Mr Hatogh said he has received so many complaints from tourists about the outrageous taxis fares on the island and he wants tourists to be treated fairly.
“The Land Transport Office must find a solution to stop this, maybe by setting up a median price, but I will inform the LTO at our next next meeting.
“I also told him that more metered taxis will be introduced so people can call for their service anywhere and anytime via a Line application. Moreover, I explained that all drivers of public transport will have to have extensive training and be educated on driving and traffic laws,” explained Gov Chamreon.
“We also talked about the parking situation at Patong beach, and I told them that in the near future Patong will have two parking zones equipped with CCTV to ensure the safety of residents and tourists when leaving and getting in or out of their vehicles.
“One parking zone will be for tourist transportation and other for public transportation,” he added.
Gov Chamreon went on to say that at the end of the meeting, Mr Hatogh said that Phuket should have a public transportation system that runs all over the island, and that it should be affordable for everyone.
“I will certainly be discussing all of Mr Hatogh and Mr Smulder’s suggestions and ideas at the next meeting of city officials,” concluded Gov Chamreon.