The smart surveillance system, which is due to go live this month, uses behaviour detection technology, facial analysis, licence plate recognition and undercarriage inspection to support police monitoring and investigations. A total of 503 cameras have already been installed across Phuket’s three districts, with plans to expand the network to more than 1,200 units in a second phase.
The system will also integrate with a provincial safety database compiling maps, vehicle information, accident records and traffic offence data, including specific tracking of rental vehicle operators and drivers. Officials say the platform is designed to enable more precise, data-driven planning to improve road safety.
The measures were reinforced during the first 2026 meeting of the Phuket Provincial Road Safety Centre (PRSC), held at Phuket Provincial Hall at 1:30pm yesterday (Apr 1), chaired by Vice Governor Teeraphong Chuaychoo.
Officials revealed that 54 people were killed in road accidents in Phuket between January and March this year, with those aged 15-34 identified as the most at risk.
High-risk areas were identified in Srisoonthorn, Chalong and Wichit, with in-depth analysis pointing to driver behaviour as the primary cause. Foreign tourists were found to face a higher risk at night, often due to unfamiliarity with local roads and the use of rental vehicles, particularly large motorcycles.
Local residents were more likely to be involved in accidents during the evening, with incidents frequently linked to reckless driving, including sudden lane changes and abrupt U-turns. Phuket’s steep and winding terrain was also cited as a contributing factor.
In response, Phuket Provincial Police have instructed all stations to identify at least two high-risk areas for targeted enforcement. Inspections of rental vehicle operators and users will be intensified, especially among tourists, with data from the Phuket Eye system expected to support enforcement efforts.
Authorities are also stepping up outreach to migrant worker communities, with agencies tasked with visiting worker camps to promote helmet use and discourage risky behaviour, particularly drink driving.
At the policy level, district road safety centres have been ordered to compile five years of historical accident data, categorised by location and risk factors, to support more precise and effective safety planning.
Public health officials warned that more than half of emergency room cases at Vachira Phuket Hospital are the result of road accidents, highlighting the severity of the issue.
Marine safety measures were also discussed, with officials calling for stricter oversight of tourism operators. This includes drug testing for boat crew and drivers, as well as closer monitoring of intoxicated tourists.
Proposals were also raised to limit jet-ski operations to no later than 6pm in an effort to reduce water-related accidents.
Officials stressed that reducing accidents will require coordinated action across all sectors, combining stricter law enforcement, advanced technology and sustained public awareness campaigns to improve safety for both residents and visitors.