PHUKET –
Phuket has launched a sweeping campaign to regulate public transport across the island, targeting illegal “black-plate” taxis and unlicensed ride-hailing vehicles.
The initiative, led by Governor Nirut Phongseethithorn, combines strict law enforcement with digital platform oversight to protect passenger safety and reinforce the province’s image as a world-class tourism destination.
On January 13th, provincial authorities mobilized a coordinated task force led by Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong and Transport Chief Atcha Buanjan. Teams from the Department of Land Transport, district administrations, and Phuket Provincial Police set up checkpoints at key locations including Phuket International Airport, piers, and major tourist hubs.
The crackdown yielded significant results: 93 vehicles were cited for operating outside their registered category under Section 21 of the Motor Vehicle Act. Offenses were recorded across the island, with 25 cases in Phuket Town, 12 in Patong, 9 in Sakhu, 8 in Cherng Talay, and others in surrounding districts.
In parallel, Governor Nirut met with executives from Grab Thailand to establish stricter compliance measures for app-based services. The agreement includes:
• Limiting the number of vehicles on the platform
• Screening driver qualifications
• Ensuring vehicle safety standards
• Immediate removal of non-compliant operators
This dual-track approach aims to prevent illegal or substandard vehicles from infiltrating the system, ensuring tourists can rely on safe, legal, and transparent transport options.
Balancing Growth and Regulation
Governor Nirut told the Phuket Express that ride-hailing apps are an inevitable part of the digital era, but their growth must remain within the boundaries of law and safety. By combining on-the-ground enforcement with platform data, Phuket seeks to build a transport system that is fair, accountable, and future-ready.
