Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn chaired an online meeting on Thursday (Apr 16) with Hyundai’s Smart City Innovation Group to exchange ideas and assess the feasibility of enhancing Phuket’s smart mobility network.
The meeting brought together key provincial officials and stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, including the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation, the Phuket Provincial Transport Office and Phuket City Development Company Limited (PKCD).
Also in attendance were Phuket Provincial Office chief Narong On-in, Digital Economy Promotion Agency Southern Region Director Pracha Asawathira, and Phuket Chamber of Commerce President Kongsak Khoophongsakorn.
Officials reiterated that Phuket has already been advancing long-term plans to develop a smart city and modern mass transit system, with a focus on expanding electric vehicle (EV) bus services, improving route networks and raising service standards for both residents and tourists.
During the discussions, provincial authorities presented current development strategies and explored opportunities for future collaboration with Hyundai, particularly in applying cutting-edge technology to improve transport efficiency.
Key proposals included the introduction of cashless payment systems, real-time integration of travel data via digital platforms, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to better manage traffic flow and ease congestion across the island.
Phuket is also testing a “Taxi Boat” project aimed at providing an alternative mode of transport by sea, helping to reduce pressure on the island’s roads while supporting sustainable urban development goals.
Officials said the talks mark an important step in building on Phuket’s existing smart city roadmap, with the goal of partnering with international private sector players to enhance transportation infrastructure and improve quality of life as the island continues to grow as a global tourism destination.