Phuket governor surveys beaches, forests and public land from the air

Phuket Governor Chotnarin Kedsom led an aerial survey across the island to assess coastal, forest and public land conditions, with the findings intended to support provincial planning, environmental management and infrastructure development.

Chotnarin was joined by Vice Admiral Weerudom Muangjeen, commander of the Royal Thai Navy’s Third Area Command, and Deputy Governor Pol. Lt. Col. Khetarat Chansilp, who also serves as acting security adviser to the permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry. The mission, supported by a naval aircraft, aimed to gather comprehensive geographic data.

According to provincial officials, the inspection covered beaches, forested and mountainous areas, public land, landfill sites, buildings and the island’s transport network. Officials said the aerial survey provided a comprehensive overview of Phuket’s coastline, beaches, forests, mountains, infrastructure and urban development, helping authorities assess land use, identify potential problems and plan future development.

The initiative follows directives from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for provincial administrations nationwide to intensify oversight of public land, natural resources and coastal zones. According to Phuket officials, the aerial inspection also forms part of the government’s policy to strengthen monitoring and management of beaches, forests and other public areas while protecting natural resources. The policy is intended to balance economic growth and tourism with environmental conservation and long-term sustainability.

During the mission, Phuket’s Internal Security Operations Command, together with other agencies, briefed the governor on land use, public space management, natural resource protection and security concerns. The information is expected to support integrated decision-making and cooperation between agencies.

Chotnarin said the survey findings would be used to strengthen Phuket’s governance framework, with attention on protecting public land and forest reserves, maintaining beaches, improving waste disposal and broader environmental management, including landfill operations, and expanding infrastructure and transport systems.

The province says the effort is aimed at improving residents’ quality of life, reinforcing tourist confidence and supporting balanced, sustainable development in Phuket.