PM promotes Bang Tao Beach model for public space reform in Phuket

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Bang Tao Beach in Cherng Talay, Thalang, Phuket, on May 10 to push what he called the “Bang Tao Beach Model” for tackling land encroachment and unauthorized commercial use of public areas. During the inspection, he said the government would restore order on state land and block control by influential figures or mafia networks.

Crackdown targets illegal use of public land

Anutin said leasing or subletting public land without authorization is illegal and warned of action against people profiting from encroachment. He also said authorities would pursue those who misled others into signing unlawful rental agreements.

He ordered administrative officials, forestry officers and police to coordinate enforcement more closely. Officials said the operation is intended to return public land to the public, protect natural assets and maintain order along a key stretch of coastline.

Model is meant for wider use nationwide

The government plans to use the Bang Tao Beach Model as a national blueprint for public-space management. The approach calls for joint work between state agencies and local administrative organizations to create a transparent and systematic framework.

Anutin said the model should prevent monopolization, guarantee fair access and let communities benefit legally from shared resources. He also said the government would examine legal options for entrepreneurs and residents who entered agreements in good faith so they can continue earning a living without damaging natural resources or violating public rights.

The visit formed part of a broader field mission to monitor encroachment cases along Phuket’s coastline. Anutin later canceled a scheduled inspection of Freedom Beach and traveled instead to Ranong Province for urgent duties.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/11/prime-minister-pushes-bang-tao-beach-model-for-public-space-reform-in-phuket/