Phuket –
Provincial authorities in Phuket have launched a coordinated campaign to strengthen fire safety standards at local establishments, following a recent blaze in Bangkok that raised nationwide concerns.
Our previous stories:
A fire ripped through the “Rong Beer Na Lad Prao” bar, restaurant, and entertainment venue near Soi Lad Phrao 1 on Lad Phrao Road in Chatuchak district in Bangkok late on July 12th, 2026, killing at least 27 people and injuring 63 others, according to Thai authorities and media reports. The blaze, which broke out around 11:57 p.m., has brought severe concerns over fire exits, building decorations, and licensing compliance.
The Governor of Phuket, Chotinarin Kerdsom, has directed sweeping safety inspections across the province’s entertainment venues, hotels, and restaurants following a deadly fire in Bangkok that claimed multiple lives.
Phuket Governor Orders Safety Crackdown After Bangkok Fire Tragedy
Now for the update:
Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom assigned Deputy Governor Pol. Lt. Col. Khetarat Chansilp, acting as security advisor to the Ministry of Interior, to lead inspections across Phuket. This is to reassure residents and tourists by ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations.
The inspection team included Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, Commander of Phuket Provincial Police, along with officials from the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, local administrative organizations, and other agencies. Together, they examined establishments in Muang District and Kathu District, focusing on venues with high visitor traffic.
Deputy Governor Khetarat said that the province is taking proactive measures to prevent tragedies. Key priorities include:
- Clear, unobstructed emergency exits and functional fire doors.
- Adequate fire extinguishers and safe electrical systems.
- Use of fire-resistant interior materials, avoiding flammable items such as foam or soundproofing panels that could accelerate a blaze.
He noted that past fire disasters often stemmed from locked exits, blocked escape routes, and combustible décor. Local authorities have therefore ordered all businesses to strictly follow safety standards, with random inspections planned to ensure ongoing compliance.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert added that police already conduct routine checks, particularly on crowd capacity, to ensure safe evacuation in emergencies. He encouraged operators to adopt safety checklists covering electrical systems, signage, obstacles, and firefighting equipment, and to seek advice from police or administrative officers when needed.
During this round of inspections, four establishments were reviewed, two in Muang District and two in Kathu District. The focus was on venues with large numbers of tourists and patrons, where risks of mass casualties are highest.
Phuket has also directed district chiefs, police station commanders, and related agencies to continue monitoring all establishments, with emphasis on fire exits, electrical systems, and fire prevention equipment. The campaign is part of the Ministry of Interior’s urgent directive to elevate safety standards and reinforce public confidence in Phuket as a secure destination.
