There have been some steps taken to expand road size on key routes,but there are no long-term plans.
One of the most contentious problems in Phuket is the lack of metered taxis. There are metered taxis in abundance throughout most major tourist areas in Thailand - but not so in Phuket. The past two governors made this a high agenda item, but the stranglehold of local transport operators has meant that a fundamental service such as basic transport has remained elusive. It was hoped that after the tsunami in 2004, the rebuilding of the beach areas would bring about many key improvements. This has not happened and the commercial sprawl onto public land is becoming ridiculous.
Out on the water, the drone of jet skis has not only resulted in fatalities, but noise pollution and environmental damage continue to mount. In Krabi, jet skis have been banned. Swimming off the west coast of Phuket, however, is comparable with a jaunt across a busy motorway.
These items represent a fraction of the issues that must be dealt with to improve the quality of life and business in Phuket. There are problems with water supplies, law and order, deforestation, garbage collection, drainage and the ability of the local educational system to provide skilled graduates to work in Phuket's rocketing economy.
This island is reliant on tourism; offshoots, such as property, transport and the service industries, remain dependent on stability and growth.
It is important to provoke dialog and advocate change. Phuket is a great place to live it's my home and my future - but it's not perfect. Here's to the new year and working towards a better island, tackling each issue, one day at a time.
