Officials waded through thick mud in Muang district, Phuket province, Thailand, last Saturday, following a devastating landslide that shook the community. (Photo: Achadthaya Cheunniran)
PHUKET: In the vibrant southern tourist island of Phuket, authorities have begun the rehabilitation process in the landslide-stricken areas of Muang district, following the discovery of all 13 missing victims. Phuket’s Governor, Sophon Suwannarat, called off the search on Saturday afternoon after the final three victims were found, confirming a tragic death toll of 13. Those who perished were either hardworking laborers or visitors from outside Phuket.
The catastrophic landslide ravaged three sub-districts in Muang district: Chalong, Karon, and Rawai. In total, the disaster impacted 209 families across nine villages. In addition to the fatalities, 19 individuals sustained injuries, with three still receiving medical care as of Sunday.
The victims comprised a mix of ethnicities and nationalities. Tragically, nine Myanmar workers—four men and five women—lost their lives. The remaining victims included a Russian couple and two Thai women from Surat Thani and Sakon Nakhon provinces.
Sophon Thongsai, head of disaster prevention and mitigation in Phuket, stated that efforts to repair public utilities and homes commenced on Sunday. Authorities aimed to clear the roads and restore toppled power poles by Sunday night, enabling evacuees to return home as swiftly as possible.
However, danger still looms. While rehabilitation efforts are underway, officials remain on high alert for potential further landslides, as rain continues to pour in Phuket, Sophon added. Meanwhile, donations are pouring in. Authorities are accepting contributions in the form of food, drinking water, clothes, and money to aid the affected victims. Importantly, officials emphasize the need for tangible items that can be immediately utilized by victims.
For those rendered homeless by the landslide, Wat Kata continues to serve as a temporary shelter for approximately 20 individuals.
His Majesty the King has also extended his gracious support. VAdm Suchart Thampitakwet, commander of the Third Fleet, revealed that the King has ordered the fleet to prepare meals for the disaster victims and the officials working tirelessly in the affected areas, starting from Saturday.
Pol Col Khundet na Nongkhai, chief of Karon police station, confirmed that 12 of the bodies had been identified, and the remaining one is presumed to be a Myanmar national. The police chief also noted that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the landslide.
The disaster struck with shocking swiftness. Heavy rains drenched Phuket from late Thursday night, and by 5am on Friday, the landslide had swept through. The rapid descent of mud and debris began at the end of Soi Patak 2 Road, behind Wat Kata, damaging a resort hotel, residences, and workers’ quarters.
As the island mourns the loss of life and contends with the aftermath, the courage and resolve of both officials and the community offer a glimmer of hope amidst the devastation. For now, they continue to forge ahead, united in the face of adversity.
This is such a devastating tragedy. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families.
Absolutely, but I hope the authorities investigate if this could have been prevented. Natural disasters are sometimes exacerbated by poor urban planning and deforestation.
You have a point Markus. Urban development should prioritize safety, especially in a place prone to such incidents.
True, but let’s not overlook the immediate need to support these victims before diving into blame.
Why were Russian tourists even there during such bad weather? It seems like a bad idea all around.
It’s not like anyone can predict a landslide with perfect accuracy. Tourists have the right to enjoy their holidays.
Agreed, Emily. Plus, weather can change rapidly. This isn’t the tourists’ fault.
Maybe, but responsible tourism means knowing the risks too. And authorities should warn people better.
It’s great to see how quickly rehabilitation efforts are starting. Real heroes in those officials.
Yes, but let’s also be realistic. Sometimes efforts like these get bogged down in bureaucracy.
The King stepping in with support is a noble gesture. It’s good to see solidarity in tough times.
I can’t believe the disaster could wipe out so many lives so quickly. Is Phuket even safe anymore?
Phuket is generally safe, but natural disasters can happen anywhere. The question is how prepared the region is.
True, but preparation only goes so far when the area is geographically vulnerable.
Every place has its risks. Earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, etc. Doesn’t mean we should avoid them entirely.
209 families affected. That’s a lot of people who need help. Donations must not stop after the initial wave of support.
The community’s response to such tragic events always restores my faith in humanity.
Investigations are ongoing? I’ll bet there’s some corruption or negligence at play.
That’s a bit cynical without evidence. Let’s wait for the investigation results.
Cynical maybe, but not impossible. Corruption is not unheard of in disaster management.
I visited Phuket last year. Can’t even imagine such a beautiful place going through this kind of tragedy.
9 Myanmar workers died. Where are the news headlines about labor exploitation and rights?
Good point, Leo. This incident might bring more attention to labor issues in the region.
Vaccines, wars, now natural disasters. It’s like the world gets no break.
The speed at which this landslide struck is terrifying. We need better early warning systems!
Can’t argue with you there, Ole. But in some cases, geological events are just too sudden.
I hope the injured recover soon. It must be traumatic for them, mentally and physically.
Mental health support should be part of the rehabilitation process too. These survivors will need it.
The one unhyped hero here is the weather forecast system. But we still need better tech to predict such events.
Resorts in high-risk areas should have stricter regulations. It’s a life and death matter.
You can’t just regulate away all risk. Sometimes, nature just wins.
Maybe, but reducing risk is still better than doing nothing. Regulations save lives.
I can’t fathom the grief the families must be going through right now.
Temporary shelters are a band-aid solution. What about the long-term housing for displaced families?
Good question. I hope there’s a plan in place for rebuilding and permanent housing.
Plans often get delayed though, and that can lead to prolonged suffering for the affected families.