The preparations were carried out on Saturday (July 25) under the direction of Thalang Police Superintendent Pol Col Nikorn Chuthong.
Traffic police, patrol officers and partner agencies, including firefighters from the Srisoonthorn Municipality, personnel from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation and tow truck teams from Thalang Police Station, assembled personnel, vehicles and equipment in readiness for increased travel by residents and tourists.
Pol Col Nikorn briefed officers and partner agencies on operational procedures aimed at improving coordination in managing traffic, assisting accident victims and responding quickly to roadside emergencies.
The operation is intended to reduce road accidents, ease traffic congestion and ensure the safety of residents and visitors travelling in Phuket.
As part of the preparations, authorities also cleared drainage pipes along roadsides to remove blockages and reduce the risk of water pooling on roads during periods of heavy rain.
Although Thalang Police described the operation as covering the July 25-30 “holiday period”, only Tuesday (July 28), Wednesday (July 29) and Thursday (July 30) are official public holidays.
The three consecutive holidays mark His Majesty the King’s Birthday, Asarnha Bucha Day and Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent Day), respectively.
A nationwide ban on alcohol sales will be in force on July 29-30 for Asarnha Bucha Day and Khao Phansa. Under the amended Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, exemptions apply only to licensed entertainment venues, hotels and international airports.
Officials gave no explanation for including today (July 27), which is not a public holiday, in the stated holiday period.
Likewise, Friday (July 31), when government offices reopen following the three-day public holiday, was not included in the operational period outlined by police.
However, The Phuket News acknowledges the pragmatism shown by Pol Col Nikorn, in tacitly understanding that many government officials, by claiming today and Friday as days off, will be endowed with a nine-day holiday.