Phuket Beaches Set for Restoration as Illegal Structures Face Demolition

Phuket's iconic beaches are set for major restoration as Thailand's Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin announced a crackdown on encroachment and illegal structures along the island's coastline. The government is enforcing court rulings to reclaim public beaches, with demolition orders posted at two large hotels whose owners had fought protracted legal battles. "Operators have been given one month to remove the structures. If they fail to do so, the DNP will demolish them under its legal authority," Minister Suchart confirmed

The encroachment cases are being handled by two agencies: the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) deals with national park land, while the Royal Forest Department (RFD) oversees forest land along the beaches. The DNP recently issued demolition notices for hotels on disputed sites, including a 13-rai plot in tambon Sakhu and a 12-rai plot in tambon Choeng Thale, following Supreme Court orders to revoke land-use certificates and remove dozens of hotel and villa structures

Minister Suchart also addressed ongoing legal challenges from groups who have occupied beach areas and profited by charging visitors for access. He dismissed concerns over a recent court petition, stating that "the ministry has sufficient evidence to defend its actions" and that prior rulings have already confirmed the land as public forest. Some buyers may have unknowingly purchased illegally occupied land, but the minister emphasized that those who acquired such land knowingly will face legal action

For Koh Samui residents and visitors, the Phuket beach restoration signals a renewed push for environmental stewardship and public access across Thailand's tourist destinations. OG Lab notes that clear enforcement on Phuket may set a precedent for other islands, encouraging sustainable tourism and fair use of natural resources along Thailand's coasts