PM Anutin launches Bang Tao Sandbox in Phuket land encroachment push

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Bang Tao Beach in Phuket on May 10 to oversee action on public land encroachment and announce the “Bang Tao Sandbox” as a model for tackling similar disputes elsewhere. He said the scheme aims to restore order on public land while allowing people to earn a living legally and reinforcing public safety after reports of intimidation.

Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, inspected the case in Cherng Talay, Thalang, and said the government was focusing on two issues: eliminating local influence networks and stopping threats against weaker residents. He told people to report harassment to the district chief, local administrative chief, village headman or police.

Coordination ordered across ministries and local agencies

Anutin assigned Deputy Interior Minister Vorasit Liangprasit to coordinate the response with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and oversee local administrative bodies. He also instructed the director of the Phuket Forestry Center to act strictly under the law while keeping lawful income opportunities for the public as a priority.

He said long-standing structures occupying seized land were illegal and called on residents to submit evidence linked to wrongdoing to the district office and other state officials so cases could be pursued under the law.

Deputy Interior Minister Vorasit said authorities would gather information from state agencies and the private sector to establish facts and find solutions that address both legal concerns and livelihoods. Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry Arsit Sampantharat said the Phuket governor would integrate all sectors to carry out the policy and develop Bang Tao as a sandbox model for other areas.

Source: https://www.thansettakij.com/economy/658688