Phuket reveals safety measures to boost tourist confidence after Phoenix tragedy
A day ahead of the first anniversary of the July 5, 2018 sinking of the double-decker Phoenix tour boat that left 47 Chinese tourists dead, the Marine Department on Thursday revealed safety measures implemented since the tragedy in a bid to prevent a recurrence.
Wiwat Chidcherdwong, chief of the Marine Office based in Phuket, said the measures covered three aspects:
The port/pier safety measure has designated 24 piers on Phuket Island to launch tourist boats. The department also allocated a budget to raise the number of personnel manning the piers from 15 to 35.
The boat safety measure involved thorough checks on all Phuket tour boats for safety and other equipment, physical condition and fitness to sail.
The "people safety” measure provided training for boat operators and boat drivers to ensure they were skilled enough to handle any emergency.
Wiwat said the measures had been implemented continuously after the tragedy and during key festivals such as New Year and Songkran, when the number of tourists on the water increased.
"We also presented the measures to embassies and consulates and received positive feedback. We believe they will help boost tourists' confidence in visiting Phuket," he added.
Wiwat said he would present information on the safety measures to General Prayut Chan-o-cha during the prime minister’s visit to Phuket on July 8.