The decision to install a circle at the intersection stemmed from motorists ignoring red traffic lights, causing many accidents at the site, explained Phuket Vice Governor Khajornkiet Rakpanichmanee.
“According to an annual report from auto insurance companies, last year alone saw five motorists die and 36 motorists injured in road accidents at this intersection,” he said.
“After several meetings and much discussion, officials decided that the best way to reduce accidents there was to build a circle.
“Motorists will be forced to slow down as they enter the circle and vehicles will move through the circle cautiously and continually, which will reduce traffic congestion in the process,” he added.
The B2.4 million to build the roundabout was provided by the Safer Roads Foundation, based in England.
Safer Roads Foundation president Michael C Woodford presented a model plan for Surin-Narisorn circle project to Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada on December 9.
The project is funded by the foundation under the campaign Traffic Accident Reduction Support for Phuket, which is part of the organisation’s campaign in 31 countries around the world to promote road safety.
In August last year, Safer Roads Foundation also donated 39 breathalysers to the Phuket Police. (See story here.)
“For this project, Phuket City Municipality worked in collaboration with the Phuket Rotary Club of Tongkah, which was in charge of the design, Prof Pichai Thanirananon from the Prince of Songkla University Phuket campus, who help guide the construction project,” V/Gov Khajornkiet said.
Regarding the design, V/Gov Khajornkiet explained, “The skeleton dome frame of the monument is made of aluminium composite material, which is strong and long lasting. Moreover, it is easy to maintain.
“The circular shape symbolises an Andaman pearl and its architectural design reflects the shell of a turtle, which is a symbol for longevity,” he said.
“The unique design is mainly based on safety issues, mainly so motorists can see other vehicles on the circle through the skeleton dome,” he added.