Senate panel presses Phuket marine upgrades to support cruise hub plans
The committee held a meeting at Phuket International Airport led by First Vice Chairman Mr Thatchayanat Jiarathanatkanon, joined by Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and representatives from Phuket Airport, the Phuket…
A Senate committee on May 17 met at Phuket International Airport to push marine infrastructure upgrades and tighter transport links as part of a wider plan to strengthen Thailand’s cruise port network by 2026. The session in Phuket was led by First Vice Chairman Thatchayanat Jiarathanatkanon and brought together Vice Governor Adul Chuthong, airport executives and agencies overseeing marine transport, tourism and safety.
Officials said the visit was aimed at joining up agency work on airport congestion, transport connectivity and water safety while collecting information for national tourism policy and infrastructure planning.
Pier congestion and vessel traffic top safety agenda
Phuket Regional Marine Department officials presented proposals to improve pier infrastructure and better connect land, sea and air transport systems to raise efficiency and safety.
Authorities told the meeting that about 4,500 registered vessels operate in Phuket waters, covering speedboats, tour boats, yachts and fishing vessels. They said heavy traffic at Chalong Pier, Rassada Pier and Boat Lagoon has made marine safety oversight an urgent issue.
The Tourist Police also outlined the use of information technology to improve traveller safety. Officers said the system would also support action against illegal accommodation operations.
Tourism figures show strength despite global pressures
Phuket Airport General Manager Monchai Tanode briefed the committee on current tourism trends and measures being used to facilitate travellers amid international economic and geopolitical pressures.
Tourism Authority of Thailand figures presented at the meeting showed Phuket remained among the world’s leading destinations in the first quarter of 2026.
Russia was the island’s largest international market with 416,716 visitors, followed by China with 209,805, India with 154,960, the United Kingdom with 82,984 and Germany with 75,684.
Officials said findings from field visits in Phuket and neighbouring Phang Nga would be used to shape clearer tourism and infrastructure policies aimed at strengthening the economy and Thailand’s image as a sustainable world-class tourism destination.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/senate-committee-pushes-phuket-marine-infrastructure-upgrade-100246.php
