Phuket –
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has ordered heightened safety measures at Freedom Beach in Phuket following the disappearance and later death of a German tourist during rough seas earlier this week.
Minister Suchart Chomklin announced that the Royal Forest Department has been instructed to temporarily close the recreational forest area surrounding Freedom Beach, located within the Nak Kerd National Reserved Forest, to reduce risks during the ongoing monsoon season. The closure covers both sightseeing and water activities.
“Public safety must come first. During the monsoon season, waves along the Andaman coast can reach 2–3 meters or higher, especially during thunderstorms. Strict preventive measures are necessary to avoid further incidents,” Suchart said.
According to reports from Royal Forest Department Director-General Nikorn Sirirojananon, the order was formally enacted on August 11th, with local officials in Phuket tasked to enforce the closure and monitor conditions closely.
Suchart explained that the temporary shutdown is a precautionary step, allowing authorities to assess weather and sea conditions without exposing visitors to danger. He urged both residents and tourists to follow official advisories and avoid water activities during storm warnings.
“This is not a permanent closure. Freedom Beach will reopen once conditions are safe and suitable for tourism,” he said, stressing that the ministry and the Royal Forest Department place the highest priority on protecting lives and property.
