Phuket reviews Patong Hill safety measures before heavier rain
Officials are examining traffic controls, drainage and road-surface improvements to reduce crash risks on the steep Patong-Kathu route.
Phuket officials are reviewing immediate and longer-term measures to reduce accidents on Patong Hill as heavier rain is expected towards the end of the rainy season.
Deputy Governor Suwit Phansengiam chaired a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on September 23, 2026, on the instruction of Governor Chotinarin Koetsom. Agencies, local representatives and residents discussed recurring problems on the road between Patong and Kathu.
Residents and road users said traffic was already heavy and that conditions became particularly dangerous when rain began. Vehicles and motorbikes can lose traction or struggle to climb the steep route, slowing traffic and increasing the risk of crashes. Congestion on the hill can also affect traffic entering and leaving Patong, they said.
Officials examined possible contributing factors including steep gradients and curves, pooled water, drainage problems, oil residue, debris and the condition of tyres and vehicles. They also considered whether garbage trucks could be leaving water, oil or other material on the road.
Immediate measures under consideration include deploying personnel to monitor high-risk sections and assist with traffic management during heavy rain. Officials will also examine road-surface and drainage improvements and address water pipes or other infrastructure that could create hazards.
The Kamala Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and Patong Municipality will be asked to oversee garbage trucks using the route and prevent water, oil or debris from being left on the road.
For longer-term improvements, engineering experts will assess the road's gradients and curves. Phuket officials will also coordinate with the Department of Highways on managing the relevant sections and any possible transfer of responsibility.
The province said October is typically one of Phuket's wettest months as the southwest monsoon ends, and that it would continue monitoring conditions while developing measures to improve safety for residents, tourists and other motorists.
