The statement of confidence came yesterday (Nov 16), when Mr Theeraphong confirmed the siz zones in Patong where 4am closing will be allowed.
The six zones are: Soi Bangla, Soi Saensabai, Soi Paradise, Aroonsom Plaza (on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, located north of Bangla), near the Sea Pearl Beach Resort and Duangjitt Resort & Spa at the southern end of the Patong beach road, and the OTOP Market (on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, at the southern end of Patong).
“Every sector agrees 100% with these zones,” said Mr Theeraphong, referring to the results of the public forum held on Tuesday (Nov 14).
“Measures will be in place to cover all aspects, both safety and the surroundings, to make it in time for D-Day on December 15,” he said.
“Kathu District Office has cooperated with relevant agencies, including the central government, police and local government departments, in setting measures to take care of safety,” he continued.
“They have set up a Line group to report incidents involving tourists, such as being drunk or not paying their bills, and the measures include setting up checkpoints to intercept people and weapons both at the beginning and end of the zones ‒ and using AI to detect faces,” Mr Theeraphong said.
“In the case of verifying those providing services at the establishments, the Thai Dee application will be used to prevent problems with ID card counterfeiting. As for drugs, there will be random inspections at all times without prior notice,” he warned.
“However, regarding the problem with garbage, collection times will be adjusted so that there is no garbage left in the area,” Mr Theerapong said.
“All of these measures will be evaluated periodically, in terms of economic value and safety. This includes Soi Bangla and surrounding areas, and including the area bordering Kathu Subdistrict and Kamala Subdistrict, checking whether the area has been affected or not.
“As for preventing road accidents, operators and officials have organised services to deliver drunken tourists who are unable to get back to where they are staying on their own,” Mr Theeraphong said.