The plan was discussed at a meeting of the provincial committee overseeing jet-ski business operations, held at Phuket Provincial Hall this week and chaired by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong.
Also attending were Phuket Marine Chief Adul Ralukmoon, officials from relevant government agencies and representatives of local business operators.
Officials were briefed on progress in bringing jet-ski businesses on Koh Naka under clearer regulatory control. Apparently provincial officials noted that “unregulated jet-ski activity” in some areas has affected traditional fishing practices and the livelihoods of local residents, making effective marine area management a priority, said an official report of the meeting.
It was not reported why no legal action had previously been taken against the jet-ski operators.
Regardless, the committee considered a zoning plan for the Koh Naka beachfront and surrounding waters, with clearly designated areas for jet-ski rentals, boat mooring, swimming and recreational activities for tourists, and local fishing zones, said the report of the meeting.
The aim is to prevent overlapping use of the same areas, reduce the risk of accidents, and strike a balance between tourism activities and the needs of coastal communities, the report added.
Vice Governor Adul stressed that the Phuket Regional Marine Office must strictly supervise the issuing of jet-ski licences, the registration of operators and compliance with safety requirements.
He said tourism development in Phuket must go hand in hand with the protection of marine resources and must not create negative impacts for local residents.
The meeting also discussed the appropriate number of jet-skis permitted for rental around Naka Island, particularly in cases where operators apply for additional registrations.
Consideration is to be given to the suitability of the area, safety concerns, potential environmental impacts and effects on local fishing communities.
Officials said further steps would be taken to ensure the zoning plan is clearly implemented and enforced, with continued coordination between marine authorities, provincial officials and local stakeholders, the report concluded.
The soft approach to resolving the jet-ski issues at Koh Naka follows Phuket MP Thitikan Thitipruethikul late last year calling for Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsittithaworn to review more than 300 jet-ski permits approved just before the retirement of former Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and a senior official from a Marine Department office in Phuket.