Phuket Governor Inspects Patong Drainage System Ahead of Heavy Rain

Wednesday, 16 September 2026, 19:15

Phuket—

Phuket Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom led an inspection of the drainage system beneath Phra Metta Road (Highway 4055) in front of a hotel in Patong, as part of preparations to mitigate flooding risks before the expected heavy rains next week.

The governor examined the structural connections of the box culvert system, which replaced the old bridge foundation, and assessed both the original municipal drainage lines and newly installed engineering works. The inspection focused on water flow directions, potential blockages, and the efficiency of the four main drainage outlets.

Governor Chotnarin spoke to the urgency of readiness: “We must ensure the system operates at full capacity. If improvements cannot be completed in time, we may deploy mobile pumping units from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to divert water up to 10 kilometers away, reducing impacts on communities and tourism areas.”

The site had previously been identified as problematic after severe flooding on October 20, 2025, particularly around Bang Wat Canal. Current findings revealed mismatched culvert sizes and inadequate connecting channels without proper manholes, raising concerns about water flow and clogging.

Discussions also addressed the municipal wastewater system, including manhole covers located along newly built sidewalks and the need for improved access for maintenance and building connections. Patong Municipality is coordinating with relevant agencies to authorize repairs and upgrades.

Joining the inspection were Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri, local council members, the Phuket Rural Roads Office, the provincial disaster prevention chief, and other officials. The province will now draft engineering plans, budget estimates, and legal reviews under disaster prevention laws and municipal regulations to ensure compliance.

The initiative is to strengthen drainage capacity, safeguard residents, and protect Patong’s reputation as a major tourist destination during the rainy season.