Governor supports demand for unique standing
Phuket, the popular tourist destination in Thailand, is seeking a special administrative status to tackle pressing issues such as clean water shortages, poor wastewater management, waste disposal problems, and traffic congestion. This move is supported by the province's Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Member of Parliament Somchart Techathavorncharoen, as of August 2025.
The special administrative status is seen as a solution to Phuket's budget constraints, as the province currently has only about 170 million baht in treasury funds despite generating significant revenue and paying high central taxes. The status change aims to increase local budget autonomy, enabling more effective planning and execution of infrastructure projects.
Key projects tied to this special status include:
- The Kathu-Patong expressway (Patong Tunnel), expected to be operational by 2030, which aims to address traffic congestion.
- The purchase and use of water stored in defunct mining pits to help alleviate the island’s acute water shortage.
- The development of a long-distance water pipeline from Ratchaprapha Dam in Surat Thani to supply Phuket and the broader Andaman region.
- The construction of a waste incineration facility with a capacity to process 1,200 tonnes daily, aiming to improve waste management and reduce environmental impact.
- Urban initiatives in Old Town Phuket to reduce congestion and preserve cultural heritage.
The special administrative proposal is still being discussed, but as of late August 2025, it has not yet been formally enacted. Governor Sophon, who supports the measure, is set to step down by October 1, 2025.
In addition, discussions are ongoing with the Provincial Waterworks Authority to develop the water pipeline, and with the Provincial Electricity Authority to bring more electric cables underground in Phuket. The municipality also plans to hire consultants and universities to draft local ordinances to address issues in the Old Town, including traffic congestion and the preservation of the heritage area.
Furthermore, the Phuket municipality is discussing plans with the Phuket Tourist Association and the Phuket Hotel Association to promote Phuket as a gastronomic city. This initiative aims to diversify the province's tourism offerings and attract more visitors.
In summary, Phuket's special administrative area status is an active government goal intended to address infrastructure bottlenecks and environmental issues through greater fiscal and administrative autonomy, enabling critical projects focused on water supply, waste management, traffic, and urban rejuvenation.
Expanding the province's financial resources is crucial for the successful implementation of these plans, as technology-driven infrastructure projects like the Kathu-Patong expressway and the waste incineration facility hold potential to dramatically enhance the region's lifestyle and sustainability. The proposed special administrative status could also facilitate the implementation of strategies that promote Phuket's growing sports tourism sector, such as the gastronomic city initiative.
