Phuket protesters condemn water shortages

Governor Pakkaphong Tavipattana told the media on Tuesday they are managing to solve water shortage problems in Phuket throughout the dry season.
While claiming that there was no "drought crisis" in Phuket, the governor said: “All administrative organisations must use their own plans to solve the drought by themselves.”

The governor blamed the media for sensationalising the story, saying the bad publicity will damage the island’s tourist reputation.
The authorities are accused of early inaction in dealing with the water shortages, meaning water tankers are repeatedly driving over the Sarasin Bridge.
On Wednesday, 15 water trucks arrived in Rassada to distribute free water to the east of Phuket Town.
Rassada, which has suffered most from the water shortages in Phuket, is now receiving free supplies instead of having to buy water following their protest.

Residents in Kathu, Chalong, Rawai, Koh Kaew, Thalang and parts of Phuket Town have been complaining over the past month that their water supply has been either cut off completely or reduced to a trickle.
On February 6 this year, the Phuket Water Authority announced water restrictions but then cancelled them the day after.
Residents say sensible earlier rationing would have avoided the current issues.

Source: Thethaiger.com