The inspection followed anonymous tip-offs, said Patong Municipality Chief Engineer Surapon Buakaew. “I received information from people who do not want to be named about it,” he told The Phuket News yesterday.
However, by the time his team of engineers from Patong Municipality’s Public Works Division arrived yesterday, Jungceylon management had already closed off the area, with signs saying, “Under Renovation. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.”
“I told them to keep the area closed and ensure the structure was reinforced with supports. We sent a report of the damage to the Patong Mayor, Ms Chalermluck,” Mr Surapon said.
However, the team of municipal engineers has yet to confirm the cause and extent of the damage.
Kathu District Sayan said that his office had the power to seal off the area for public safety, but added that Jungceylon management had already agreed to work together with the council engineers, who will return today (June 9) to continue their inspection and assessment of the damage to the structure.
A source at Phuket Square Co Ltd (Jungceylon) told The Phuket News, “So far we have only found damage to the pillars. We are coordinating with engineers from Patong Municipality to investigate further.
“We have already closed off the Port Area (open air zone) and the underground market called That’s Siam. The areas will remain closed off until this has been rectified completely and properly.
“We assure you that this damage does not affect any of the main buildings,” she said.
Jungceylon management will reveal more details at a press conference to be held later today, she said.