Phuket speeds up B48.4m underpass lighting project ahead of school term
Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn issued the directive during the latest meeting of the Phuket Provincial Joint Public-Private Sector Committee for Solving Economic Problems (PJPC), instructing relevant agencies to…
Phuket officials have ordered urgent repairs to underpass lighting systems across the island, racing to finish a B48.4 million upgrade project before schools reopen. Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn issued the directive after months of delays and scrutiny over the stalled works, which target five major underpasses.
Contract Delays and Oversight Intensify
The lighting and electrical upgrades, contracted to Better World Traffic Co Ltd, were signed on September 27, 2025, with a 210-day deadline set for April 24, 2026. Work failed to start for more than four months, triggering concerns from officials and an investigation by the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission Region 8.
The project covers underpasses at Phuket Airport, Bang Khu, Samkong, Darasomut, and Chalong. Authorities warned the contractor could abandon the project, prompting tighter oversight and the threat of penalties for missed deadlines.
Accelerated Work Schedule and Public Involvement
Construction crews began intensive operations at 9pm on April 23, now working day and night shifts across all five sites. Daytime work runs from 9am to 6pm, with night shifts from 9pm to 6am. Temporary underpass closures are permitted during off-peak hours, particularly from 9am to 4pm, to minimize traffic disruption.
Planned upgrades include LED lighting, fault warning systems, licence plate recognition, smart signage, and a centralised remote monitoring centre. The governor has also ordered inspections of streetlights island-wide, urging the public to report faults to the Phuket Highway Department at 076-212179 during office hours or via the 24-hour hotline 1586.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-races-to-fix-underpass-lighting-before-school-term-100019.php
