Phuket Tourism Operators Face Challenges from Climate Change Effects

Phuket tourism operators are worried about the adverse impacts of climate change, including severe weather and flooding, which pose risks to the tourism industry. Key figures in the sector emphasize the need for improved infrastructure and regulatory measures to cope with these challenges. Despite concerns, tourism revenue projections for Phuket indicate growth beyond pre-pandemic levels, with a focus on promoting eco-friendly tourism.

Tourism operators in Phuket express significant concerns over the increasing effects of climate change, which have manifested in severe weather and flooding across Thailand and in tourist source markets. Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, the President of the Phuket Tourist Association, noted that flooding in Phuket has become an annual occurrence impacting regions such as Kata, Karon, and Kamala. Recently, landslides caused by intense rainfall in these areas led to tragic fatalities among foreign visitors, and parts of Kamala were submerged last week. While Mr. Tantipiriyakij suggests that these incidents may not deter tourists from visiting Phuket, they nonetheless result in considerable inconvenience and traffic disruptions. He lamented, “I still haven’t seen any attempt by the central government to redevelop Phuket’s water management or urban infrastructure.” In spite of these challenges, Phuket is projected to achieve 500 billion baht in tourism revenue this year, surpassing figures from before the pandemic. However, Mr. Tantipiriyakij pointed out that the maintenance of infrastructure has not kept pace with the increasing number of tourists. Virintra Papakityotsaphat, the President of the Tourism Council of Phuket, emphasized that natural disasters related to climate change pose significant risks to the tourism sector. She advocated for government measures to regulate and enhance infrastructure to withstand such calamities, including stricter rules against illegal construction that obstructs flood paths and water retention areas. The recent occurrences of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton have further illustrated the tumultuous effects of climate change, with the latter causing extensive power outages in Florida and resultant flight cancellations. Mrs. Papakityotsaphat remarked that these events could deter tourists from traveling abroad, especially during peak seasons for long-haul trips to Thailand. Nonetheless, she expressed confidence in Phuket’s diverse market sources, including visitors from Russia, Europe, India, and China. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, the Deputy Governor for Marketing in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), stated that there have been no reports of U.S. tourists stranded in Thailand due to flight cancellations. He noted that some tourists who had already booked trips may delay their plans until conditions improve. Mr. Cheawsamoot concluded that the impact of recent natural disasters on the U.S. market should be short-lived, and the TAT remains optimistic about welcoming at least one million U.S. visitors this year. Furthermore, the agency is intensifying its promotional efforts to position Thailand as a preferred destination for eco-friendly and low-carbon tourism.

The article addresses the pressing issue of climate change and its tangible effects on the tourism sector in Phuket, Thailand. It highlights the recurrent flooding challenges and natural disasters faced by the island, which pose risks to its growing tourism market. Industry leaders are advocating for improved infrastructure and regulatory measures to mitigate these challenges and sustain tourist attraction amidst changing climate patterns.

In summary, Phuket tourism operators are increasingly concerned about the ramifications of climate change, particularly as they experience recurrent flooding and severe weather. Industry leaders urge the government to enhance infrastructure and enforce regulations to prepare for and respond to natural disasters. Despite these challenges, tourism revenue is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, and ongoing promotions aim to attract eco-conscious travelers. The outlook for tourism in Phuket remains cautiously optimistic, given the diverse sources of visitors to the island.

Original Source: www.bangkokpost.com