Mr Somchart and his team visited Ao Kung in Pa Khlok yesterday (May 4), where they held discussions with the community chairman, the Moo 9 headman and local residents following mounting complaints about the development.
Residents raised multiple concerns, most notably over what they described as a lack of transparency surrounding the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Community members told the MP they were never informed of, or invited to participate in, any public hearings as required under the approval process, despite indications that the EIA may already have been approved.
The community also warned of wider economic consequences, noting that Ao Kung serves not only as a key fishing ground for local Phuket fishermen, but also supports fishing communities from neighbouring provinces including Krabi and Satun.
“Destroying the resources here means destroying the livelihoods of people in many provinces,” residents told Mr Somchart.
Further concern was raised over a previous resolution by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which had reportedly opposed the project. Residents questioned why the development now appears to be moving forward despite that position.
Mr Somchart said he has taken the complaints seriously and will launch an investigation focusing on two key areas.
The first will examine the EIA process to determine whether proper procedures were followed, including whether public participation requirements were bypassed or misrepresented.
The second will involve coordinating with relevant agencies to assess and monitor potential environmental impacts, particularly on marine and coastal resources relied upon by local fishing communities.
“Development must go hand in hand with sustainability and the consent of the people,” Mr Somchart said.
He added that he will continue to follow the issue closely and provide updates as the investigation progresses.