PHUKET –
Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports is launching a bold new initiative, the “Phuket Model,” aiming to transform the island province into a global benchmark for tourism safety. Minister Sorawong Thienthong recently toured Patong’s Bangla Road, a nightlife hub, to evaluate ongoing security upgrades and encourage further inter-agency collaboration.
During his site visit, Minister Sorawong reviewed multiple safety measures already in place, including the installation of 24 high-resolution CCTV cameras—nine of which cover Fishbone Alley, a key thoroughfare. Comprehensive assistance points have also been established to ensure that tourists can easily access help when needed.
A standout innovation involves QR code-enabled tourist checkpoints—12 in total—designed to streamline emergency responses. These digital stations recorded over 700 interventions from May of 2025 showcasing a successful fusion of tourism and tech.
Under NCPO Order 4/2025, Patong’s local transport ecosystem has undergone restructuring to reduce traffic congestion and ride-hailing conflicts. The area now accommodates 24 designated taxi queues, including five located near Bangla Road. Joint efforts by Phuket’s transport office and Patong Municipality have resulted in improved pickup zones, pedestrian crossings, and optimized traffic flow during peak hours: 6–8 p.m. and 2–4 a.m.
Traffic police now patrol three key zones using digital radios and live CCTV feeds to manage road conditions and reduce gridlock.
Law enforcement agencies routinely conduct drug testing and random searches at entertainment venues. Patong Municipality has partnered with local police to install AI-powered CCTV with facial recognition, which links directly to criminal databases. These systems help flag individuals with outstanding warrants or known criminal histories in real time.
Expandable fencing now lines Bangla Road’s entrance and exit points, enabling a controlled pedestrian-only environment every night.
The minister also observed a simulated beach rescue led by Patong’s lifeguards, inspected the CCTV control center, and offered encouragement to frontline officers. Meeting with local business owners and tourists, he spoke about the importance of trust and security in sustaining tourism growth.
“Phuket must not only attract travelers—it must earn their trust. Safety is the key to welcoming the world,” said Minister Sorawong.
The Phuket Model is set to be a prototype for similar safety-driven tourism strategies in other popular destinations across Thailand, notes The Phuket Express.
