In the vibrant enclave of Phuket, tourist safety is set to become the cornerstone of the high season, as per Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s recent directives. Addressing key tourism agencies in a Sunday meeting, the Prime Minister underscored the significance of meticulous preparations from September to February, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for the influx of tourists.
The gathering witnessed the presence of notable officials from various sectors, including the Royal Thai Police, Provincial Police Region 8, Tourist Police Bureau, Immigration Bureau, Marine Police, Royal Thai Navy, Phuket Provincial Governor, and Airports of Thailand (AoT). Their collective mission: to fortify Phuket’s reputation as a safe haven for visitors amid the anticipated travel surge.
According to a credible source, the Prime Minister emphasized that all relevant agencies, particularly the police, must gear up to deliver top-notch services and swiftly address any crime-related issues, be they by or against tourists. Although the high season hasn’t officially commenced, Phuket is already experiencing a spike in tourist numbers. The source highlighted AoT’s reports, revealing that Phuket airport currently manages 20-30 flights daily this month alone.
As the high season rolls in, the airport is preparing to host an impressive 14,000-15,000 tourists daily, culminating in roughly 600,000 visitors each month – a figure that doubles last year’s statistics. The Prime Minister also prioritized streamlining airport operations, particularly with respect to expediting baggage handling processes to curtail prolonged wait times.
Highlighting the importance of efficiency, he called for the swift implementation of automated document verification systems to alleviate the burden on immigration officers. This system aims to cap the waiting period for tourists at immigration to no more than 30 minutes during peak hours, ensuring a smooth flow and fostering a positive first impression.
In a robust show of readiness, Provincial Police Region 8 outlined their comprehensive plans to facilitate tourism and deter criminal activities. This includes close collaboration with consulates stationed in Phuket, representing nations such as Russia, China, India, Australia, the United Kingdom, and various Scandinavian countries. Additionally, there’s a push to bolster the ranks of international volunteers who will assist tourists in liaising with authorities or offering assistance.
Law enforcement will be bolstered, with stringent measures in place to mitigate crime and uplift the overall safety of tourists. This initiative is particularly significant given the government’s extension of entertainment venue operating hours to 4am – a change that has garnered a favorable response from the tourist community.
Moreover, the Prime Minister directed the navy to stand ready to assist in case of any maritime accidents. The collaborative approach of these diverse agencies underscores a unified commitment to making the upcoming tourist season not only busier but remarkably safer and more enjoyable.
Isn’t it too little, too late? Crime rates are already high in Phuket.
Well, better late than never. At least they’re trying to do something now.
But should we only expect efforts during high season? This should be an ongoing commitment!
I visited Phuket last year and didn’t feel unsafe at all. You guys are exaggerating.
Maybe you were lucky, but statistics don’t lie. People deserve to feel safe all year round.
Automated document verification is a great idea! This could really help with long lines at immigration.
Yeah, but do you trust technology that much? What if it fails?
I’ve seen similar systems work perfectly in other countries. It’s about time we modernize.
Let’s face it, humans and machines both have their faults. At least with machines, the process is faster.
The extended hours for nightlife venues are a double-edged sword. Yes, it might be fun, but it also increases the risk of crime.
Live a little, Max! People come to Phuket for freedom and fun. Just be cautious.
PartyLover123, caution should already be the default, especially in a foreign place.
Exactly, Cathy! Fun shouldn’t compromise safety.
Great to see consular cooperation, but what about the language barrier for tourists?
Phuket airport is a disaster. Even with these new measures, I doubt it will improve much.
I totally disagree. They’ve already made a lot of progress recently.
Phuket airport may not be perfect, but no airport is. At least there are improvements on the horizon.
Yeah, last time I was there, it was chaotic. But hopefully, things will change.
I’ll believe it when I see it, Jen and Ben. Until then, I’m skeptical.
What about the environmental impact of this surge in tourist numbers? Nobody’s talking about that.
True, more tourists means more pollution. Government should address this too.
But tourism is crucial for the local economy. Balancing is key.
As a tourist from China, I appreciate the extra safety measures. It makes me feel more welcome.
Is it really about safety or just making more money from tourists? Gotta wonder about the real motives here.
Exactly. It’s all about profit. They don’t really care about the tourists.
Come on, a safer environment benefits everyone. Let’s give them some credit.
Ollie, I’m just saying, we need to be critical about these things. That’s all.
More international volunteers sounds like a fantastic initiative, especially for first-time visitors.
Glad to see the navy involved. Maritime safety is often overlooked but crucial.
Absolutely! The sea can be just as dangerous as the streets if not more.
This is just political posturing. Nothing will change, mark my words.
Hard to say. Changes take time, but at least they’re addressing the issues.
I think it’s wonderful that the government is trying to improve things. Let’s hope it’s effective.