Authorities are dismantling restaurants, bars, and sunbeds, returning Surin Beach to tourists and locals alike.

Work continues apace in Phuket to clear Surin Beach of illegal structures. A task force led by representatives from the Thalang District Administration is working for the second day in a row to dismantle and remove illegal commercial structures along the shoreline. The operation started on 14 May 2025 and continued on 15 May despite heavy rain that did not deter the authorities’ determination.

Law enforcement officers were present to ensure order and security during the operation. Reportedly, no incidents or public order violations were reported. The owners of illegal businesses calmly observed the dismantling of their structures.

The dismantled facilities were mainly tents with thatched roofs. This design allowed the illegal entrepreneurs to claim that their structures were temporary, although, in practice, they were never removed from the beach.

Among the facilities dismantled were restaurants, cocktail bars, and sun lounger rentals aimed at serving tourists. The actions were carried out in fulfillment of a decision by a local working group to resolve conflicts over the use of Phuket’s public beaches.

The operation is being led by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwanarat, with support from Vice Governors Adul Chuthong and Samawit Suphanphai, as well as Thirapong Chuaichu, the province’s chief administrative officer. Talang district chief Sivat Rawangkun was present at the site and the task force was led by Talang district administration chief Wisut Romin.

The task force included representatives from the Cheng Talay sub-district administrative organization (OrBorTor), police officers, military personnel, forestry officers, municipal officials, and security personnel from the Volunteer Defence Corps (OrSor).

According to an official report, the operation aims to remove sites, buildings and anything related to the illegal occupation of public areas on the beach in order to return the area for public use to residents and tourists. Authorities emphasise that the measures are aimed at ensuring order, transparency and sustainable beach management.

The Thalang District Administration said the initiative is part of a wider strategy to ensure Phuket’s beaches are accessible, organized, and sustainably managed for both locals and tourists. The main objective is to protect public land and ensure fair and responsible use of beach areas. Special emphasis is placed on environmental compliance and prevention of violations of environmental laws.

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