The handover ceremony took place yesterday (Oct 14) at the Bangla Police Box on Thaweewong Rd, with Pol Maj Gen Narongrit Dansuwan, Deputy Commander of Region 8 Police, presiding.
Among those attending were Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri, Patong Development Foundation President Mr Kittithat Kraithong, and Foundation founder Preechawude ‘Prab’ Keesin.
Pol Maj Gen Narongrit said the new traffic barriers will strengthen police efforts to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow in Phuket’s most visited tourism hub.
“Patong is a world-class destination with large numbers of visitors every day. These new standardised barriers will help officers perform their duties more efficiently and keep both residents and tourists safe,” he said.
He added that the equipment will especially benefit pedestrians, helping to create safer crossings and a better-organised city environment. “Maintaining safety and order not only benefits residents but also reinforces Patong’s reputation as a beautiful and welcoming destination,” he said.
Pol Maj Gen Narongrit also called on residents and the media to support efforts in promoting Patong’s positive image, encouraging the sharing of “good stories” about the community, visitors, and the friendly local atmosphere, said an official report of the event.
Mayor Lalita said the municipality has prioritised safety preparations for the coming high season, including traffic management, pedestrian safety and environmental measures.
“These new barriers will help regulate traffic and crossings during the busy period,” she said. “We are also strengthening wastewater and waste management systems. Patong currently produces about 120-130 tonnes of garbage a day, which is expected to rise to around 200 tonnes per day during the high season.”
Mayor Lalita noted that Patong Municipality recently received the “Outstanding Livable Municipality” and ITA Transparency awards, recognising its ongoing commitment to good governance and sustainable city development.
Mr Prab Keesin, founder of the Patong Development Foundation, said the project reflects a shared vision between the public and private sectors.
“Our goal is to make Patong a safe and beautiful city that builds confidence among both tourists and residents,” he said. “These efforts contribute to the long-term sustainability of Phuket’s leading tourism area.”
The foundation’s initiative marks the latest in a series of community collaborations aimed at improving safety, cleanliness, and the overall visitor experience in Patong as it prepares for the year-end influx of international tourists.