Phuket tourism operators are increasingly worried about climate change’s effects, including severe weather and flooding. Reports indicate that flooding in areas like Kata, Karon, and Kamala is frequent, causing disruptions for tourists despite strong revenue projections. Local leaders emphasize the need for improved infrastructure and regulations, particularly against illegal constructions that could exacerbate flooding risks. While recent global natural disasters may deter some tourists, Phuket’s diverse markets may help mitigate impacts, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand still optimistic about visitor numbers this year.
Tourism operators in Phuket express significant concern regarding the implications of climate change on the local tourism industry, particularly due to the increase in severe weather events and flooding. Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, the president of the Phuket Tourist Association, highlighted that flooding in certain areas of Phuket, such as Kata, Karon, and Kamala, has become a recurring phenomenon each year, with this year being no exception. He pointed out that landslides earlier this year resulted in the deaths of foreign tourists in Kata and Karon, while recent flooding has disrupted transportation in Kamala. Despite the continuing tourist interest in Phuket, Mr. Tantipiriyakij noted that these incidents lead to considerable inconvenience, particularly in terms of traffic congestion. He criticized the central government for failing to implement adequate improvements in water management or urban infrastructure to address these ongoing challenges. The tourism revenue projections for Phuket are anticipated to hit 500 billion baht this year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels; however, the infrastructure has lagged behind the rising number of visitors. Virintra Papakityotsaphat, president of the Tourism Council of Phuket, emphasized the significance of climate-related natural disasters posing a considerable risk to the tourism sector. She advocated for better government regulations and improvements to infrastructure that would be capable of withstanding such environmental challenges, underscoring the necessity of enforcing stringent laws against illegal constructions that obstruct flood management. Recent global natural disasters such as Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton have raised concerns regarding their potential impact on international travel. Mrs. Papakityotsaphat remarked that while these disasters could dissuade tourists from traveling, particularly during peak travel seasons, Phuket may benefit from diverse markets including Russia, Europe, India, and China. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, deputy governor for marketing at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), noted the lack of reports indicating that American tourists were stranded in Thailand due to flight cancellations; however, he mentioned that some individuals may postpone their travel plans. He forecasted only short-term effects on the US market due to recent natural calamities, reinforcing the TAT’s expectations of welcoming at least one million US visitors this year. Furthermore, the TAT intends to bolster Thailand’s promotion as a destination prioritizing eco-friendly and low-carbon tourism.
Phuket, a popular tourist destination in Thailand, faces increasing challenges related to climate change. Operators in the tourism sector are alarmed by recurrent flooding and severe weather patterns that disrupt travel plans and affect tourist infrastructure. Given that Phuket is experiencing a boom in tourism revenue, the call for improved water management systems and infrastructure maintenance is urgent to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors, especially as the world grapples with the realities of climate change and its unpredictable impacts on travel and tourism.
In conclusion, Phuket’s tourism operators are increasingly concerned about the repercussions of climate change, which manifest in severe weather disturbances and flooding that hinder transportation and compromise safety. Despite rising tourism revenues and a strong visitor interest from diverse markets, the necessity for improved infrastructure and effective regulatory measures is paramount. The TAT maintains confidence in the resilience of the tourism sector, especially regarding the continued interest from American tourists. Nevertheless, ongoing global climate challenges highlight the urgent need for adaptive measures within the industry.
Original Source: www.bangkokpost.com
