A Phuket MP has called for an explanation regarding the removal of two tsunami warning towers in Thalang district, citing public concerns over safety and disaster preparedness.
Thitikan Thitipruethikul, a People’s Party (PP) MP for Phuket, has submitted a petition to the House Committee on Natural and Public Disasters Prevention and Mitigation (NPDPM) following reports that warning towers WH09 on Mai Khao Beach and WH10 on Le Phang Beach had been taken down without prior notice. After visiting the sites on December 12, he confirmed their removal and questioned the lack of communication from authorities.
On Monday, Phuket governor Sophon Suwannarat stated that the towers had been dismantled for repairs. He said the Mai Khao Beach tower would be reinstalled at its original location, while the Le Phang Beach tower would be relocated to Phang Nga province.
Mr. Thitikan raised concerns over why the Le Phang Beach tower was not being replaced, particularly given the area’s high tourist activity. He also pointed to ongoing issues with missing tsunami buoys in the Andaman Sea, some of which have remained out of service for over a year.
He urged authorities to expedite the restoration of warning systems and improve public communication regarding the maintenance and relocation of disaster response infrastructure to prevent confusion and ensure safety.
